The Cost of Getting What You Want

A reflection as we wrap up 1 Kings

The book of 1 Kings is, at its heart, a long unfolding of what happens when Israel insists on having kings “like the other nations” (1 Samuel 8). What starts with the golden reign of Solomon quickly decays into division, corruption, idolatry, and injustice. The kingdom splits. Kings rise and fall. And the people drift further from God.

Even the best leaders—like Solomon—struggle to finish well. He builds the Temple, yes, but also marries foreign wives and turns to other gods. The kings that follow are often worse. Over and over, we see that when the people choose power over obedience, image over integrity, and influence over intimacy with God, things unravel.

Yet through all of this, God remains faithful.

He sends prophets. He honors His promises to David. He allows consequences, but never abandons the story. Even in judgment, there is mercy. Even in decline, there is hope.

Overarching Lesson:

Getting what you want isn’t always the same as getting what’s best.

Israel wanted kings. God allowed it—but the story of 1 Kings shows that earthly power structures can’t replace divine relationship. When leadership is disconnected from God, even the wisest plans fall apart. But when people humble themselves and return to God—even if they’re only a remnant—He responds with grace.

Personal Takeaway:

Ask yourself: What have I insisted on, even when God had another way?

Am I looking to human solutions to fix what only spiritual obedience can restore?

God’s desire has always been to dwell with His people, not to rule over them from afar.

1 Kings is not just a political history—it’s a spiritual warning and a deep invitation:

Choose covenant over compromise. Choose presence over position. Choose obedience over appearances.