Was God Toying with Solomon?

The reign of King Solomon marks the golden age of the Kingdom of Israel. But just a generation later, everything goes downhill. As soon as Solomon’s son, Rechavam, takes the throne, civil dispute splits the Kingdom in two – ultimately leading to the Temple’s destruction and exile. 

Solomon was known for his great wisdom, wisdom that was actually a gift from God, granted to Solomon in a dream. But if God was willing to give Solomon great wisdom, why didn’t He give him wisdom he really needed… the wisdom to avert this disaster just around the corner? 

This is not just a textual question but a deeply personal one: If God wasn’t there for Solomon, how much personal guidance can any of us expect during the greatest trials of our own lives?