Some things described in God's Word are hard to explain. It's not that the circumstances are hard to explain. It's that it's hard to accept the decisions described by those who have walked with God! Such is the case in 1 Kings 11 and the description of how far King Solomon falls. 

I think there are several warnings to be heeded in this passage. And there is also the kindness of God on display...which is the same kindness He displays to us!