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strange wives

1 Kings 11:7&8
"7 Then did Solomon build an high place for Chemosh, the abomination of Moab, in the hill that is before Jerusalem, and for Molech, the abomination of the children of Ammon.
8 And likewise did he for all his strange wives, which burnt incense and sacrificed unto their gods."

Solomon’s construction of high places for pagan worship violated God’s commands against idolatry. Chemosh, linked to war, and Molech, associated with child sacrifice, were abominations. Influenced by his foreign wives—Moabites, Ammonites, Edomites, Sidonians, and Hittites—Solomon turned from God, endorsing idolatry and defying the covenant. This compromise, starting subtly, led to overt disobedience and divine judgment, including the prophecy that the kingdom would be taken from his son.

Solomon’s failure teaches us to set firm boundaries. A clear, confident “no” signals strength, resisting external pressures. Surrounding himself with faithful supporters could have countered his wives’ influence. By focusing on God’s priorities, Solomon could have stayed true to his faith. We can learn to anchor ourselves in God’s plan when facing pressure. See last week’s devotions for tips on following God’s path.
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