What Was He Thinking?

“Solomon also made a palace . . . for Pharaoh's daughter, whom he had married” (1 Kings 7:8).


So, I’m reading again in 1 Kings and came across this verse. And I wondered what was Solomon thinking? God graced him with magnificent wealth, unsurpassed wisdom and extensive political power.

So why didn’t he get it right about obedience?

It’s not like Solomon didn’t know better about taking foreign wives. He did. All Israelites knew what Moses taught about marrying outside the faith (e.g. Exodus 34:12-16).

Did Solomon ignore God’s law so he could form political alliances with surrounding nations? Or did he turn aside from God’s rule for a pretty face? Whatever the reason, he made a very wrong choice and compromised his obedience.

Of course, Solomon was no different than we are. Who hasn’t turned left or right when he or she should have walked straight? Who hasn’t rationalized disobedience to God to form social, political or work-related alliances?

Kings or servants, managers or laborers -- if we really believe the cost of compromise was more than we would want to pay, no one would disobey Him. In Solomon’s case, disobedience led to the kingdom’s division and tragedy in his home.

God has not changed. If you and I divert from His path, we can expect to pay for our compromises.

But, now that I think about it, what Christian would want it any other way?