When Solomon was alive, he promoted one of
his servants, named Jeroboam. He had a unique
ability of getting things done.
One day Jeroboam met a prophet, who was
wearing a new coat. The prophet said, “Here is a
message from God.”
He then took off the coat and ripped it into
twelve pieces. He handed Jeroboam ten of
them and gave him this message from the Lord:
“Solomon left me and turned to worshipping
idols. Therefore, I’m going to rip the kingdom
out of his hands. You’ll rule over the northern
ten tribes of Israel. I’m not taking all the tribes
away because of David and Jerusalem. Therefore
Solomon’s son will rule over Judah.
“Follow me and obey my commandments.
If you do, I’ll be with you. I’ll establish your
kingdom, and...