How can we discern motives when others make requests of us? Setting the Scene Adonijah had already tried to seize Israel’s throne (1 Kings 1:5-10). Spared by Solomon on condition of loyalty, he now sends Bathsheba to plead for a seemingly innocent favor: the hand of Abishag, David’s former attendant. To the culture of the day, marrying a royal concubine implied a claim to the crown. Solomon recognizes the threat and judges accordingly (1 Kings 2:24-25). Key Verse 1 Kings 2:17: “He said, ‘Please speak to King Solomon, for he will not refuse you. Let him give me Abishag the Shunammite as my wife.’ ” Hidden Agenda Exposed The polite wording masks ambition. The request’s real goal is power, not marriage. Scripture here models the need for believers to look beneath surface words when others approach with petitions. Principles for Discernment • Recall previous actions. Adonijah’s past rebellion explains his present aim (Matthew 7:16). • Watch for indirect routes. He avoids Solomon and plays on Bathsheba’s maternal influence (Proverbs 26:24-26). • Weigh the request against God-ordained order. Granting Abishag would blur royal succession (Romans 13:1-2). • Detect self-exalting gain. Selfish ambition, not genuine need, drives the appeal (Philippians 2:3). • Notice flattery and presumption. “He will not refuse you” works to disarm Bathsheba (Proverbs 29:5). • Let Scripture shine its light. God’s word “judges the thoughts and intentions of the heart” (Hebrews 4:12). • Seek godly counsel. Solomon confers, then acts; wise advisors protect from deception (Proverbs 11:14). Related Scriptures • 1 Samuel 16:7 — The LORD looks at the heart. • Proverbs 16:2 — Motives weighed by the LORD. • Philippians 1:9-10 — Discernment springs from abounding love. • James 1:5 — Wisdom supplied generously by God. Walking It Out Today • Remember patterns of character—past fruit predicts present motive. • Hold every request up to biblical truth. • Resist pressures that bypass proper authority. • Stay alert to flattery, guilt tactics, or fear-based manipulation. • Invite the Holy Spirit to flag inner unease. • Keep trusted believers close for honest feedback. Encouragement for the Journey God provides the discernment needed to guard relationships and assignments. Anchored in His Word and guided by His Spirit, believers can recognize hidden agendas and respond with wisdom, just as Solomon did with Adonijah. |
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