II Chronicles 10-11

“My father made your yoke heavy, but I will add to it. My father disciplined you with whips, but I will discipline you with scorpions" (10:14).  Sadly, the great kingdom built by King David and King Solomon fell apart very quickly.  The underlying tensions between tribes, David and Solomon’s excessive marriages (especially to pagan women), and the continuing idolatry throughout the land produced deep, unresolved problems.  Young King Rehoboam’s dictatorial, harsh leadership was the last straw, and Israel split apart.

The glory of Solomon’s kingdom was undermined by the sins of Israel’s leaders and citizens.  But God promised that one day, a new King would arise called “Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace” (Is 9:6).