King Solomon's Bad Example

Unhappily, however, like the values of so many leaders today, Solomon's values eventually changed. The Bible account reads: "He came to have seven hundred wives, princesses and three hundred concubines; and his wives gradually inclined his heart. And it came about in the time of Solomon's growing old that his wives themselves had inclined his heart to follow other gods; and his heart did not prove to be complete with Jehovah his God like the heart of David his father." - 1Kings 11:3,4.

What effect did King Solomon's changed values have on his people? In spite of his great ability and wisdom, Solomon became an oppressive ruler during the latter part of his reign. The high costs of his government caused an excessive drain on the nation's economy. The work force became discontented. Political rivals resisted the king and sought to unsurp his power. The nation lost much of its sense of cohesion. How ironic that Solomon himself wrote: " When the righteous become many, the people rejoice, but when anyone wicked bears rule, the people sigh." -Proverbs 29:2.

Shortly after Solomon's death, political unrest and distrust led to a dividing of the nation and an ensuing period of hardship, disunity, and decline. The Israelites felt an overwhelming sense of loss. Their government had changed its values, forgetting the best interests of the people. The basic fault was that their leaders had ignored Jehovah and his laws. Thus, the entire nation suffered.

Next time: Widespread Lack Of Trust Today