What lessons on humility can we learn from Adonijah's approach to Bathsheba? Setting the Scene • 1 Kings 2:13 opens with a quiet knock: “Adonijah son of Haggith went to Bathsheba…” • Moments earlier he had tried to seize Israel’s throne (1 Kings 1). Now he approaches Solomon’s mother, apparently meek, hoping she will petition Solomon to give him Abishag—David’s former attendant and a symbol of royal claim. • Bathsheba’s first words reveal her caution: “Do you come peacefully?” Adonijah’s Body Language vs. Heart Language • Kneels, bows, and speaks softly—classic signs of humility. • Yet his request masks an ambition to legitimize his failed bid for kingship (2 Kings 2:22 notes Solomon’s reaction). • Scripture shows that outward humility can disguise inward pride (cf. Matthew 15:8). Lesson 1: Humility Is More Than Manners • Courteous words are good, but God weighs motives (Proverbs 21:2). • James 4:6: “God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble.” • True humility springs from a surrendered heart, not polished etiquette. Lesson 2: Humility Respects God’s Order • The throne was God-given to Solomon (1 Chronicles 28:5-7). • Adonijah’s round-about appeal ignored that clear decree. • Philippians 2:3 urges, “Do nothing out of selfish ambition… in humility consider others more important.” • Humility gladly submits to roles God assigns, even when personal dreams differ. Lesson 3: Humility Speaks Transparently • Adonijah cloaked his real agenda. • Ephesians 4:25 calls believers to “speak truthfully to his neighbor.” • Transparent words protect unity and build trust; hidden motives fracture both. Lesson 4: Humility Waits for God’s Timing • Instead of repenting and waiting, Adonijah pressed for recognition. • 1 Peter 5:6: “Humble yourselves… that He may exalt you in due time.” • Biblical humility trusts the Lord’s calendar more than personal clocks. Lesson 5: Humility Rejects Self-Exaltation • Proverbs 16:18 warns, “Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall.” • Adonijah sought status through marriage ties; Solomon saw the threat and judgment followed (1 Kings 2:24-25). • Contrast with Jesus, who “humbled Himself by becoming obedient to death” (Philippians 2:8). Walking It Out Today • Examine motives: ask the Spirit to reveal hidden self-promotion. • Embrace God-appointed roles—home, church, work—with gratitude. • Speak plainly; let “yes” be yes, without agendas behind the words. • Wait patiently for God’s vindication instead of grasping for platforms. • Celebrate others’ successes, resisting any urge to secure our own spotlight. Adonijah’s polished approach looked humble, yet Scripture lays bare the pride beneath. Genuine humility bows first before God, trusts His order, and serves without self-seeking—an enduring lesson from a single palace corridor encounter. |
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