Compare Jeroboam's actions in 1 Kings 12:2 with Proverbs' teachings on wisdom. Setting the Scene • 1 Kings 12:2: “When Jeroboam son of Nebat heard of this, he was still in Egypt where he had fled from King Solomon, and Jeroboam returned from Egypt.” • Years earlier the prophet Ahijah had told Jeroboam he would rule ten tribes (1 Kings 11:29-39). • Solomon sought to kill him, so Jeroboam fled to Egypt (11:40). • Solomon dies; Rehoboam travels to Shechem for his coronation. Jeroboam hears the news and hurries back, positioning himself for leadership. What Proverbs Calls Wise • Fear of the Lord—“The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge” (Proverbs 1:7). • Humility—“Before destruction a man’s heart is haughty, but humility comes before honor” (Proverbs 18:12). • Patience & self-control—“A wise man fears and turns from evil, but a fool is careless and reckless” (Proverbs 14:16). • Respect for lawful authority—“My son, fear the LORD and the king, and do not join with the rebellious” (Proverbs 24:21-22). • Seeking godly counsel—“Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed” (Proverbs 15:22). • Trusting God’s timing—“Trust in the LORD with all your heart… He will make your paths straight” (Proverbs 3:5-6). Lining Up Jeroboam’s Move beside Proverbs Wise echoes • He acts after God’s promise (1 Kings 11:31-37). In that narrow sense, he recognizes a door the Lord had foretold (Proverbs 3:5-6). • Returning when Solomon is dead shows a measure of practical timing (Proverbs 15:23). Foolish notes • Motivated by self-promotion more than the fear of the Lord (Proverbs 1:7). His later idolatry exposes the root. • Open defiance of the reigning house ignores Proverbs’ warning against rebellion (Proverbs 24:21-22). • No record of seeking divine counsel before stepping back into the spotlight—contrary to Proverbs 15:22. • The haste of his return hints at recklessness (Proverbs 14:16). • Pride quietly surfaces; he believes he can secure the throne on his own terms (Proverbs 16:18). Takeaways for Today • A door of opportunity can still be walked through foolishly if the heart is proud. • God’s promises call for humility and obedience, never self-assertive rebellion. • Wise action is marked by reverence for the Lord, respect for authority, patient timing, and dependence on godly counsel—qualities Jeroboam soon set aside, to his and Israel’s ruin (1 Kings 12:26-33). |
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