1 Kings 11:4 As Solomon grew old, his wives turned his heart after other gods, and his heart was not fully devoted to the LORD his God, as the heart of David his father had been.
King David was a man after God’s own heart. Prior to reading about his reign, that expression “a man after God’s own heart” brought to mind images of perfection. But I am so incredibly far from perfect. However, upon reading about David’s life and reign, I see that he was incredibly far from perfect, too, that perfection isn’t at all what being a person after God’s own heart is about.
1 Kings 11:6 So Solomon did evil in the eyes of the LORD; he did not follow the LORD completely, as David his father had done.
God Himself gives a good definition of being a person after His own heart in 1 Kings 9:4 “…if you walk before Me with integrity of heart and uprightness…and do all that I command and observe My decrees and laws….” Having a heart focused on Him, striving to be honorable and honest, walking in His ways, obeying His word, this is how to be a person after His own heart. It begins with mindfulness and intention, keeping our eyes and minds and hearts on Him.
1 Kings 11:9 The LORD became angry with Solomon because his heart had turned away from the LORD, the God of Israel, who had appeared to him twice.
Lord, Thank You for this day and this scripture. Thank You that You don’t demand perfection in our walk with You. Thank You that we can be people after Your own heart by staying focused on You, by striving to praise You and shine Your light. I am so far from perfect, Lord, but I strive to be a person after Your own heart. Take my fallible human efforts, and use them for my good and Your glory. Draw me closer. Amen.
1 Kings 11:11 So the LORD said to Solomon, “Since this is your attitude and you have not kept my covenant and my decrees, which I commanded you, I will most certainly tear the kingdom away from you and give it to one of your subordinates.”
Have a blessed day.
My faith, my life, my teaching–it's all a work in progress.