The Lord was very angry with Solomon, for his heart had turned away from the Lord, the God of Israel, who had appeared to him twice. He had warned Solomon specifically about worshiping other gods, but Solomon did not listen to the Lord’s command. So now the Lord said to him, “Since you have not kept my covenant and have disobeyed my decrees, I will surely tear the kingdom away from you and give it to one of your servants. But for the sake of your father, David, I will not do this while you are still alive. I will take the kingdom away from your son. And even so,…

One of the criminals hanging beside him scoffed, “So you’re the Messiah, are you? Prove it by saving yourself—and us, too, while you’re at it!” But the other criminal protested, “Don’t you fear God even when you have been sentenced to die? We deserve to die for our crimes, but this man hasn’t done anything wrong.” Then he said, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your Kingdom.” And Jesus replied, “I assure you, today you will be with me in paradise.” —Luke 23:39-43 Let this promise sink down into your soul! One criminal crucified at the time Jesus was said, “Jesus, remember me when you come into your Kingdom.”…

Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they don’t know what they are doing.” And the soldiers gambled for his clothes by throwing dice. —Luke 23:34 Just as it was then so it is today. People do not understand why Jesus had to be crucified nor do they understand who they are themselves— that they are wicked sinners in rebellion against God and are headed for eternal Hell if they do not repent (turn from their own ways) and call on Jesus to save them from sin, death and Hell and be reconciled to God. It is wonderful to know Jesus! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jbe7OruLk8I When they hear the message about Jesus— how much…

Give me an understanding heart so that I can govern your people well and know the difference between right and wrong. For who by himself is able to govern this great people of yours? —I Kings 3:9 But the mob shouted louder and louder, demanding that Jesus be crucified, and their voices prevailed. So Pilate sentenced Jesus to die as they demanded. As they had requested, he released Barabbas, the man in prison for insurrection and murder. But he turned Jesus over to them to do as they wished. —Luke 23:23-25 The above verses show quite a contrast in the leadership decision making process. On the one hand it was…