David began his reign with good prospects of success. Later the childlike trust in God that had marked his early career was marred by compromises. The king copied some of the ways of other monarchs and fell into grievous sin. His early faith, his fall, and his sincere repentance all had their influence upon Solomon. In the last years of his life David sought to arm Solomon against the sins that had brought such tragic consequences upon himself and his people (see PP 753;
1 Kings 2:1-4). Solomon began his reign in a spirit of humility and consecration which enabled the Lord to bless him with unmatched prosperity (
1 Kings 3:5-15). This era was, indeed, the golden age of the Hebrew monarchy. His fame had spread abroad throughout much of the world, and many sought his wisdom (
1 Kings 4:31-34; 10:1-13). One of the great errors of his life was his multiplication of wives, many of whom were idolatrous (
1 Kings 11:1-4). The influence of these women was to turn his heart from God. See pp. 1059, 1060.