Background:
Rehoboam, the son of Solomon and grandson of David, ascended to the throne of Israel following Solomon's death. His reign is marked by a significant event that led to the division of the united kingdom of Israel into two separate entities: the northern kingdom of Israel and the southern kingdom of Judah. This division was precipitated by Rehoboam's harsh response to the people's request for lighter burdens, as recorded in 1 Kings 12 and 2 Chronicles 10.

The Division of the Kingdom:
Upon Solomon's death, Rehoboam traveled to Shechem, where all Israel had gathered to make him king. The people, led by Jeroboam, who had returned from Egypt, requested that Rehoboam lighten the heavy yoke imposed by Solomon. Rehoboam, after consulting with the elders and then the young men he grew up with, chose to follow the latter's advice, responding harshly to the people. This decision led to the rebellion of the ten northern tribes, who declared, "What portion do we have in David? We have no inheritance in the son of Jesse. To your tents, O Israel!" (1 Kings 12:16). Consequently, the kingdom was divided, with Rehoboam reigning over Judah and Benjamin, while Jeroboam became king over the northern tribes.

Rehoboam's Preparation for War:
In the wake of the division, Rehoboam sought to reassert his control over the entire kingdom. He assembled an army from the tribes of Judah and Benjamin, totaling 180,000 chosen warriors, to fight against the house of Israel and restore the kingdom to himself (1 Kings 12:21). This preparation for war highlights Rehoboam's initial determination to reunite the kingdom by force.

Divine Intervention:
However, as Rehoboam prepared for battle, the word of God came to Shemaiah, the man of God, instructing him to deliver a message to Rehoboam and the people of Judah and Benjamin. The message was clear: "You are not to march up and fight against your brothers, the Israelites. Each of you must return home, for this is My doing" (1 Kings 12:24). Obedient to the divine command, Rehoboam and his forces refrained from attacking, and they returned to their homes.

Significance:
Rehoboam's preparation for war and the subsequent divine intervention underscore the sovereignty of God in the affairs of nations and leaders. The division of the kingdom was not merely a political or social event but was orchestrated by God as a fulfillment of His word through the prophet Ahijah to Jeroboam (1 Kings 11:29-31). Rehoboam's experience serves as a reminder of the importance of seeking and heeding divine guidance, especially in matters of national significance.

Related Scripture:
· 1 Kings 12:1-24
· 2 Chronicles 10:1-11:4

Themes:
· Leadership and Authority
· Obedience to God
· Divine Sovereignty
· Conflict and Resolution

Historical Context:
Rehoboam's reign began around 931 BC, a time of transition and tension following the prosperous but taxing rule of Solomon. The division of the kingdom marked a pivotal moment in Israel's history, leading to distinct political, religious, and cultural developments in the northern and southern kingdoms.