What role does discernment play in understanding others' motives, as shown in this passage? Setting the Scene 1 Kings 2:13: “Now Adonijah son of Haggith went to Bathsheba the mother of Solomon, and she asked, ‘Do you come in peace?’ ‘Yes, in peace,’ he replied.” • Adonijah had previously tried to seize the throne (1 Kings 1). His visit to Bathsheba occurs after Solomon’s coronation, so his motives are suspect. • Bathsheba’s first response is not hospitality but a probing question—an instinctive act of discernment. Discernment on Display: Bathsheba’s Question • She does not accept Adonijah’s words at face value. • Her simple query—“Do you come in peace?”—tests his intentions before any request can be made. • Proverbs 20:5: “The intentions of a man’s heart are deep waters, but a man of understanding draws them out.” Bathsheba draws out Adonijah’s heart with one clarifying sentence. Why Discernment Matters • Protects from deception (Proverbs 14:15). • Guards God-given responsibilities—in Bathsheba’s case, preserving Solomon’s throne. • Prevents hasty alliances that compromise obedience (Joshua 9:14). • Keeps peace by exposing hidden conflict before it erupts (James 3:17). Marks of Godly Discernment • Tests words against past actions (Adonijah’s earlier rebellion). • Listens before committing (Proverbs 18:13). • Seeks wisdom from God’s Word (Psalm 119:105). • Relies on the Spirit’s training—“solid food is for the mature, who by constant use have trained their senses to distinguish good from evil” (Hebrews 5:14). • Affirms truth graciously but firmly (Ephesians 4:15). Outcomes When Motives Are Misread • Solomon eventually discerns Adonijah’s ulterior plan—using marriage to Abishag to gain legitimacy—and orders his execution (1 Kings 2:22–25). • The episode underscores Proverbs 26:24–26: hidden hatred will be exposed. • Failing to discern can endanger a nation, family, or church (Acts 5:1–11). Practical Takeaways for Today • Pray for love that “abounds more and more in knowledge and every kind of discernment” (Philippians 1:9–10). • Ask clarifying questions before granting trust. • Observe consistency between someone’s past and present words. • Measure every request against God’s revealed will (Romans 12:2). • Remember that motives are ultimately revealed by the Lord (1 Corinthians 4:5). |
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