The End of Solomon's Reign

King Solomon ruled Israel for forty years. When Solomon first became king, he, like his father David, loved to serve God. God rewarded Solomon and blessed him with wisdom and wealth beyond that of any other king. Even so, God still had rules to follow. God told His people to not marry people of other countries who worshipped idols. Solomon disobeyed God by marrying the daughters of other kings.

Solomon's wives worshipped idols. Solomon had an opportunity to teach them to worship God, but instead, they brought their idols to Jerusalem with them. With their influence, Solomon soon forgot all that God had done for him. Solomon built temples for these idols to please his wives, and even went with them to worship these idols. Solomon also broke many other rules that God had given him. How disappointed and angry God must have been! God told Solomon, "Since you have not obeyed My laws and commands, I will take your kingdom away and give it to your servant."

We learn from our lesson that, even though he was very wise, Solomon foolishly choose the wrong women as companions. Friends have a strong influence and can tempt us to do bad things. It is very important to have friends who are good people and obey God, so that we do not turn away from God.

Put a check next to each sentence that describes someone who is a good influence. Draw a line through the sentences that describe someone who is a bad influence.

1. Susie tells her friends that she cannot go to the picnic on Sunday morning because she is going to worship God.
   
   
2. Randy tells his friend Larry that didn't do his math homework because he was too tired. Larry offers to let Randy copy his homework.
   
   
3. Elizabeth and Joan are friends. Joan accidentally breaks one of Elizabeth's favorite toys. Elizabeth is very angry and calls Joan bad names.
   
   
4. John is out playing ball in his front yard. Mrs. Simpson, an old lady who lives next door, is having problems carrying in her groceries. John puts his ball down and runs over to help.
   
   
5. Bobby, Casey, and Bill are out playing and get thirsty. They walk to the convenience store near their house. While there, Bobby and Casey take candy and hide it in their shirts. They try to get Bill to do it too.

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