The resources God has given us to live a thriving life are His Word, Spirit, and People.
Read God’s Word:
1 Samuel 21-24, Psalm 91
Act 2: God’s Covenant People
Scene 5: Kings and Prophets: God shapes a kingdom people
Background Information: 1 Samuel 21-24, Psalm 91
David, in a desperate flight from murderous Saul, collects Goliath’s sword (it was rightfully his now) and heads right into Goliath’s hometown of Gath. Of course, they recognize the guy who killed their most famous citizen, but David pretends to be insane. The ruse works. This doesn’t look like a great start for Israel’s greatest king, but in it all, God is training David for what is to come. Notice the army David is forming: distressed, discontent, and in debt. These men were all running away from something. It’s amazing that a group like this would follow anyone, but David was not just anyone. Saul, the king that Israel wanted, begins to massacre the priests, while David moves to protect them. While King Saul is chasing down David because of his own jealous insecurity, the enemies of Israel were attacking. David, on the other hand, has several opportunities to take Saul’s life but will not do it. Notice the stark differences between the two men as you read of their actions. Saul knows his kingdom has come to an end and that David is his chosen successor. This temporary change of heart on Saul’s part will not keep him from continuing to pursue David in his murderous rage. If you ever wonder how it is that Satan could continue his murderous rampage knowing full well that his days are numbered and that he cannot win, consider Saul. Sin makes people foolish. When people, or angels, give themselves fully over to sin, they become fully dark and deranged. Only when we see sin as the deep darkness that it is, will we see grace and forgiveness as the amazing gifts that they are.
Pray:
Praise God for…
Thank God for…
Confess your sins to God
Pray for the lost. Ask God to give you opportunities to have gospel conversations. Pray for boldness. Pray for God to open the eyes of unbelievers.
Ask God for… (what else concerns you?)
Reflect:
Write down one passage of scripture that stood out to you today.
Write down why this passage stood out to you.
Engage Community:
Text or call someone now and tell them…
– What you are praying for.
– What stood out from God’s word today.