From Rehoboam’s initial decision to increase the taxes and the workload for the northern tribes, Rehoboam continued to lead Judah away from God. He established idols and prostitutes throughout the land. Judah engaged in detestable practices similar to the nations the Lord had driven out before the Israelites. Without God’s protection, the Egyptians carried off the treasures of the Temple of the Lord and the king’s palace. And there was continual conflict between Judah and Israel. [Reflection based on the Bible Reference – 1 Kings 14:22-28]