Jeroboam – Opportunity abused Part 1
1Ki 11:28 And the man Jeroboam was a mighty man of valour: and Solomon seeing the young man that he was industrious, he made him ruler over all the charge of the house of Joseph.
The tribe of Ephraim produces a future King. The Bible introduces Jeroboam as a mighty man of valor A man that was industrious who was initially given charge of the house of Joseph in the time of Solomon. He is introduced as the enemy of the King. God had ordained that Solomon’s legacy would be split because he did not keep the commandments and statutes of God. God said He will give part of this kingdom to his servant. That man was Jeroboam.
Jeroboam started well. He was hardworking, and from the prestigious tribe of Ephraim, next in honor to the tribe of Judah. He must have been spotted to be reliable, brave and with integrity. Diligence promoted Jeroboam but diligence is not enough. Character must make him end well. Jeroboam had a weak point – he loved power more than God. This was not initially evident …it is often wiser to promote someone who is godly … a man after God’s heart. Men or women who love power can appear hardworking – they look like they can be trusted with major assignments. Indeed they can start very well, but soon love of power above God will cause them to do strange things and enter into all sorts of evil alliances for power.
A good track record is not enough – we must keep searching our hearts to expose hidden cracks that we may find corrections before the enemy finds us useful to work as his instruments against God’s will. An early promotion to a very senior position can be a sign of greater potential …but a man that has not been prepared enough as Joseph was in the dungeon of Egypt is soon spoilt by power.
Jeroboam was told by the Prophet Ahijah that he would have the throne someday …but he was told the reason for the opportunity … only because Solomon had failed. Good sense would have taught Jeroboam to ponder over Solomon’s failure and avoid a similar fate…but an ambitious man does not think this way … all he saw was an opportunity for a throne he did not deserve.
Ponder over this text. Has an opportunity suddenly opened before you ? Ask God to give you grace not to abuse it. Ask God to search your heart.
Song.
Can you be obedient
To the Lord of all,
Though the earth should totter,
Though the heav’ns should fall?
Face e’en a disaster
With a faith-filled heart,
Knowing naught can harm him
Who with Christ will start?
Prayer : Father, search my heart and prove me …expose the cracks that could destroy me in future. Heal these cracks. Amen
The Songs of Joseph is an integration of encouragement scriptural devotions, prayers and a compendium of songs of mercy, salvation, new beginnings and victory. We can expect as we trust and obey that our end will indeed be ultimately glorious because God works His marvellous agenda. Be blessed as you read and sing along, daily. Edited by Bolade Apampa
