1 Kings 1 - along with a ton of psalms 4-6, 9-14, 16, 17, 22, 25-28, 31, 35, 36, 38, 40-41, 53, 55, 58, 61, 64, 69-71, 86, 102, 109

I don't usually comment on the psalms simply because they are pretty self-explanatory.  I encourage you to read them, a few a day, and apply them during your prayer time.  I know I do.

Onto another book.  We still have a chapter in 2 Samuel regarding David's death, along with more to read in 1 Chronicles.  However, since we are reading the Bible chronologically, I thought it made sense to read about the remainder of David's life before we read about his death.  Remember, these books were written by different people for different purposes, so each writer will highlight events from David's life a little differently.  Some events are mentioned in one book, but not another.  So, open to 1 Kings & let's get started.

So we start out learning that David is becoming weak and ill.  A young woman is brought in to help keep him warm.  The terms, "wait", "be of service", and "in your arms", suggest that Abishag is to be a concubine, but David does not utilize her in that manner, leaving his son Adonijah with the understanding that he can take over his father's kingdom.  Joab joins forces with Adonijah, but Nathan and David's mighty men stay loyal to David.

I find it interesting that these people aren't learning from the past.  Has anyone been successful in coming against David?  Nope.  But before we judge too harshly, take a look at your own life.  Any historical mistakes that you were blind to or simply choose to ignore.  Surely, it won't happen to YOU.

Also note that David never held his son accountable for his actions.  Once again, Adonijah is a product of neglect and indulgence.  Be careful here - for we have become a wealthy nation that seeks self-esteem and pleasure way too often.  We may look at David and think, "Why didn't you parent those boys better?"  But, once again, look at your own children.  Do you try to give them everything they want?  Are you attempting to meet every heart's desire?  Do you hold your children accountable for their wrongs or do you attempt to "just keep the peace?"  David is a prime example of an indulgent parent & his children have become resentful and selfish because of it.

So, the selfish would-be king needs to be stopped.  Nathan and Bathsheba approach David & he ensures that the kingdom is aware that Solomon is the chosen king, not Adonijah.  Adonijah hides out at the altar until he has assurance that Solomon will not harm him.  However, Solomon is already showing himself a wise king - he states Adonijah is safe as long as he shows himself to be trustworthy.  Never make a promise you can't keep & don't swear an oath that you will later regret.