May 5: 1 Chronicles 29:1–22; 1 Kings 1:1–53

Offerings for the Temple – 1 Chronicles 29

• David, because Solomon is young, provides much riches to build the temple. The people of Israel also make their donations willingly, and David rejoices.

David Prays in the Assembly

• David blesses the Lord in the presence of all the assembly, praising God for his kingdom and recognizing him as the source of wealth and strength. He prays that God will keep the people in the same purpose and frame of mind as they are that day.
• The people make Solomon the king of Israel again, and anoint him.

David in His Old Age – 1 Kings 1

• King David is very advanced in years, and even though he is covered with clothing he cannot get warm. His servants search out a young woman to lie in his arms and keep him warm, and Abigshag the Shunammite is brought to him. She is of service to the king, but he does not have sexual relations with her.

Adonijah Sets Himself Up as King

• Adonijah, David's son, determines that he will be king, and gathers chariots, horsemen, and fifty men. Joab and Abiathar follow him, but Zadok the priest, Benaiah, Nathan the prophet, Shimei, and Rei do not. He sacrifices animals at the Serpent's Stone, and invites all his brothers.

Nathan and Bathsheba Before David

• Nathan tells Bathsheba about what Adonijah is doing and has her go and tell David that Adonijah has declared himself king. She does so, and while she is speaking, Nathan comes into the room and confirms that Adonijah has declared himself king, is sacrificing animals, and has Joab, Abiathar, and others with him. Nathan informs David that he, Benaiah, Zadok the priest, and Solomon were not invited.

Solomon Anointed King

• David calls Bathsheba into his presence, and he confirms that Solomon is to be king. He then has Zadok the priest, Nathan, and Benaiah brought before him, and he instructs them to take Solomon to Gihon, anoint him king, blow the trumpet, and say "Long live King Solomon." They are then to bring him back to the palace, where he will sit on the throne.
• Adonijah and all his guests hear about this as they finish feasting. Jonathan, the son of Abiathar, brings news that Solomon has been made king. All the guests tremble in fear and leave.
• Solomon is told that Adonijah fears him, and Solomon states that if he will show himself a worthy man, not one hair will fall from his head, but if he is not, he will die. Solomon sends for Adonijah, who is brought to him, and Adonijah pays homage to him. Solomon sends him home to his house.