In First Kings, chapter twelve, verse twenty-four, the Lord brought about the division of his people. He designed the existence of two nations as a punishment for idolatry, and as a means of preserving a faithful remnant through Judah, as in chapter eleven, verse thirteen. Though Israel departed from God, a leftover part of Judah remained loyal to the covenant. Through them, God would fulfill His promise of the Davidic Messiah and redemption.
The people speak unbecomingly of David. How soon are good men and their good services to the public forgotten? These considerations should reconcile us to our losses and troubles, that God is the Author of them and our brethren the instruments: let us not meditate revenge. Rehoboam and his people heard the word of the Lord. When we know God’s mind, we must submit how much it crosses our mind. If believers secure His favor, not all of the universe can hurt us.
Today many people in different positions within the House of God may encounter conflict. Whatever the circumstances, there must be an understanding and a resolution to the situation. However, if there is no agreement, the last resort is separation. Especially within the congregation, there must be unity and love. Otherwise, how can the Spirit of God flow within a sanctuary without love?
God divided the people into two nations to remove those who did not have God within their agenda. That explains why idols were involved with some of these people because their interests were not on God but other deities. The sad thing about some believers is they receive great blessings from God. Yet, it was not enough to save them but turn to idols for some satisfaction. The problem is impatience: not many believers are willing to wait on God to work things out, and they decide to do it themselves.