David
The narrative of David and Goliath is a well-known account of the underdog winning over impossible odds. Yet there is more to the story. David recognises the situation for what it is: an illegitimate assault against the army of the ‘Living God’. Despite his youth, lack of military experience and rudimentary equipment, David introduces Goliath to the ‘Giant Slayer’ – God Almighty. No matter what your giant looks like, “if the Spirit of Him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, He who raised Christ from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through His Spirit who dwells in you.” (Romans 8:11)Discuss
Read 1 Samuel 17:1-51
The location of the battle was the Promised Land, that is, land promised to the descendants of Abraham as part of God’s covenant. This section of land had been allocated to the Israelite tribe of Judah (Joshua 15:20-21, 35). This was not just a physical inheritance, but a physical expression of a spiritual inheritance.- What do you understand your spiritual inheritance to be?
- What do you believe is the physical expression (or evidence) of that spiritual inheritance in your life (in areas such as relationships, raising children, health, work ethics, overcoming, coping with change, etc)?
- Looking ahead, what differences do you hope to see in the future?
- Discuss how this can become a reality in everyday life and when faced with giants.
- David displayed the attributes of knowing he was anointed (1 Sam 16:13), faithfulness (1 Sam 17:17-20), boldness (1 Sam 17:26b), reliance on God (1 Sam 17:37), and faith (1 Sam 17:45). Discuss how or why these attributes may grow to maturity in the way we approach our giants.
- David showed a deep strength in ignoring his brother, Eliab (1 Sam 17:28-30). When confronting giants, we may experience feelings of doubt or opposition from naysayers. Why is it important to overcome the battle in our thinking as a first step to defeating the giants we confront?
- David was able to ignore his brother’s ridicule because he knew who he was and whose he was. He defined himself in the light of God’s promise to him and his people. How do you define yourself? How can we stop defining ourselves within the limitations of our self-image, experiences, age, regrets, etc?
Respond
Taking hold of the promises of God, and living with the blessings of those promises, is knowing your salvation as a believer and understanding your relationship as a child of Father God. The victory won by Christ means that the enemy has no legal right to rob us of that spiritual inheritance that begins in this life and continues into eternity. Let us not be ignorant of the devil’s ways – he prowls around like a roaring lion (1 Peter 5:8-9) – but if we abide in Father God through Christ, all the devil can do is run to the end of his chain and bark. But we need to occupy the Promise Land and overcome the enemy when he tries to stop us. What are you willing to change to apply God’s promises to those areas of your life that need healing or growth?
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Fill in the blanks: “The Lord does not look at the things people look at. People look at the o_______________ a______________, but the Lord looks at the h_____________.” (1 Samuel 16:7) Out of the obscurity of shepherding sheep in the outback, David was anointed as future king. He appeared to be the most unlikely candidate compared to his seven older brothers. Yet, God chose David and he grew to be known as “the man after God’s own heart”, despite his shortcomings. What can we learn from his anointing?Discuss
- Have you ever felt that you were judged on your outward appearance? How did that make you feel and how did you respond to that? How do we tend to judge ourselves based on our own appearances?
- “God looks at our heart, who are really are and who we are becoming. We are not the sum of our failures or the sum of our worst moments.” Refer to Psalm 103:12 on God’s forgiveness. How does this speak to you?
- Review 1 Samuel 16:13. This was a pivotal moment in David’s life as he was anointed to be the future king in place of Saul. The anointing oil represents the Holy Spirit. Can you share a moment in your life when you felt God called you to do something beyond your comfort level? What is your experience of anointing when you stepped out in faith to obey Him?
- Review 1 Corinthians 2:9. How can this promise encourage us to take risks that God is leading us into? What ”faith risk” do you think God may be challenging you to take at the moment?
- Despite his great anointing and calling, David was unable to deal with some temptations in his life. Refer to 1 Corinthians 10:13. What is one way personal temptations can be dealt with?/li>
- What does “Pray bigger prayers” mean? Refer to Ephesian 3:13. How does this verse encourage us to ask in faith?
Respond
In order to live by the Spirit, we need a heart surrendered to God. This enables the anointing of the Holy Spirit to be released in our lives. Share one “bigger prayer” with your group and support each other in mutual prayer. Pray for an anointing of the Holy Spirit in this matter.
References
1 Samuel 16:7 But the Lord said to Samuel, “Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The Lord does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.” Psalm 103:12 …as far as the east is from the west, so far has he removed our transgressions from us. 1 Corinthians 2:9 However, as it is written: “What no eye has seen, what no ear has heard, and what no human mind has conceived” — the things God has prepared for those who love him 1 Corinthians 10:13 No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it. Ephesians 3:20 Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us
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Saul was anointed by the Lord to lead His people, Israel. However, when Saul decided not to listen and to obey God’s instructions, the Lord rejected Saul as king (1 Samuel 15). The Lord then instructed Samuel to anoint David to become the new king. After David defeated Goliath, Saul became afraid of David and David remained as Saul enemy for the rest of his days. Saul, who was once anointed and filled by the Spirit of the Lord, was blinded by the power and influence given to him. What is it that we can learn from the difference between Saul and David?
Discuss
- If you were to have the same power and influence of a king, what would you do? How would you use it?
- Considering how he used to be very fond of David (1 Samuel 16:21), why did Saul become afraid of David?
- Read 1 Samuel 23:1-5. Why did David inquire of the Lord twice? What is the significant difference between Saul’s and David’s battle strategy?
- Ps. Sam teaches that power and influence gets into our heads naturally. Can you think of another Biblical story where power and influence take place? How have you been using this power and influence?
- We all have different social domains placed strategically by God. What is it like to be lead by or to be around you? What hinders us from using power and influence for the better?
- How can we become a better and wiser conduit of power and influence?
Respond
God gives us power and influence. No matter the size of our power and the reach of our influence, we need to use them for others around us. When we misuse this power and influence, it will not be long until God takes it away from us – and potentially giving it to someone else, who might appear small and unpromising, but has bigger heart and greater obedience. What is one step of obedience you can do this week to exhibit a better use of your power and influence? Commit to do it.
David
Followers of Jesus understand that we were created by design, which includes God’s intention for us to live all aspects of our lives in relationship. Whilst a moment of solitude can be rejuvenating, we were not designed to be ‘an island’. Pastor Sam cited a long-term Harvard study on happiness that demonstrated “Strong relationships have a better chance of making a long, happy life than social class, intelligence or even genetics.” In the Creation narrative in Genesis, scripture declares that it is not good for man to be alone. Throughout the Bible, this theme carries over to all aspects of our lives and underpins the importance of healthy relationships in marriage, family, friendships and community.
Opening Discussion (Optional)
- If we are designed by God to benefit from being in good relationship, why do we see ruined relationships at every level being so prevalent in our world?
- Is this the work of Satan, or the human heart drifting away from God, or a combination of both or other factors – who do we blame?
- What is the cure? As believers, what can and should we do about it? Where do we start?
The relationship between Jonathan and David is one of the strongest examples of a healthy friendship ever recorded. The account begins at 1 Samuel 18:1 and continues until circumstances force the men to go in separate directions at 1 Samuel 23:18. However, their bond continues even after Jonathan is killed in battle, and becomes a legacy benefitting Jonathan’s son, Mephibosheth. Both David and Jonathan were men of character (illustrated in 1 Samuel 14 and 1 Samuel 16 respectively). Both were used of God mightily and miraculously to deliver Israel. David needed a friend, and God provided the selfless, kindred spirit of Jonathan. Let’s review some of the attributes of this friendship.
Discuss
Read: 1 Samuel 18:1-4, Ephesians 5:21
- Something clicked between Jon and Dave. What part did their respective relationships with God, and David’s anointing, play in this?
- Both Jon and Dave had a spiritual anointing; David was anointed by the prophet Samuel and Jonathan as heir to the throne. Yet Jonathan surrendered his possible earthly inheritance in the light of God’s evident anointing upon David. We today are anointed by God through His Holy Spirit to live as servants of Christ. How does surrendering to each other’s gifting strengthen friendships?
Read: 1 Samuel 19:1-6, 1 Samuel 20:1-4
- When hard times hit, we need meaningful relationships and support networks that warn us and speak on our behalf. Share an incident where this has made a difference in your own life.
- Jon’s commitment to Dave was a massive sacrifice and potentially costly. Dave could have asked for anything, but he did not exploit it to an extent that was unreasonable. Discuss the importance of both sides here – Jon’s willingness and trust, and Dave’s respect and value of the offer.
- Jonathan warns David of something he was unaware of. We all have blind spots in our lives at one time or another, and could use a friend to prevent us from making a mistake. But sometimes it hurts to hear the truth. Could you be that friend who speaks the truth, even if it is hurtful? Could we receive a hurtful truth from a friend who loves us? How can we know the telling, or receiving, is done with the right motive?
Read: 1 Samuel 23:14-18
- Dave was losing focus, so Jon “strengthened his hand in God”, reminding him of his calling. Friends help each other to find the spiritual truth, to remember who they are, to get a focus on where they are heading, and encourage each other in the right direction. Do you have the courage to be that kind of friend?
- What difference would it make to you to have a Jonathan in your life?
- Have you positioned yourself to have friends like this?
Respond
The Body of Christ (the Church of believers) is stronger when we value each other’s contribution and gifting, bond together as a loving family and stand together in times of hardship. Each of us has something valuable to contribute that will benefit others, something that God has put within you that will bring spiritual health, development and growth to the Body of Christ. This in turn builds you, too. What is one thing that you could do each week that would make you a Jonathan type of friend? Who is that one person you should/could contact this week?
David
Fill in the blanks: My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to _____________; slow to ______________ and slow to become ___________________. (James 1:19) David and his army were in need of food and refreshment. He approached Nabal, a wealthy pasturer, for assistance. David reminded Nabal that his army did not take advantage of his shepherds and had in fact protected them. Nabal rudely reviled David, who reacted angrily and was about to attack his household. Abigail, Nabal’s wife, intervened and interceded for her husband to prevent this.Read: 1 Samuel 25:1-34
Discuss
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- What reasons did Abigail give to persuade David not to take revenge? What can we learn from this?
- We all have experienced injustice and offence in our lives. Without going into details of the past events, how did you react to the offensive situation? In hindsight, how could you have responded differently?
- James 1:19 and Proverbs 15:1 provide wise counsel on how to communicate. How can we communicate in times of conflict to avoid an escalation of the situation?
- Apart from the story above, who else in the Bible was treated unjustly and suffered for it? How did they respond? Specifically, how did Joseph (in Genesis) and Jesus respond? What can we learn from that?
- Abigail is often seen as an intercessor who interceded on behalf of Nabal for David’s forgiveness. How can we do the same if we are caught in a crossfire of misunderstanding? How can we be peacemakers?
- Forgiveness is a fundamental spiritual value and practice of a believer (Colossians 3:13, Ephesians 4:32, Matthew 6:12). Why are believers able to forgive others?
- What may happen when a person chooses not to forgive, continues to hold a grudge, or takes revenge? How can such behaviour be counterproductive? See Hebrews 12:15.
- Read Psalms 24:3-6, Proverbs 25:21-22, Romans 12:19. Why is it better to trust God to bring justice in a grievous situation?
Respond
Forgiveness does not imply that an offence is unimportant, untrue or insignificant. However, we can draw healing from God and find grace to forgive others who offend against us. We may also recognise that we have caused offense to others and would also like to be forgiven for our mistakes. Are there past offenses that still impact you today? If you would like some support in this area, ask the Life Group to pray for you to receive healing and restoration from God, and commit the matter to him. What steps of forgiveness can you take this week? Download PDFDavid
We all face circumstances that may lead to a sense of disappointment with God. From a sudden illness to an unexpected death, relationship breakdown, career disappointment or family challenge, difficult or hurtful circumstances test us, and can leave us with a sense of anger, frustration and despair. When confronted by these moments, we are called to trust God’s plan even in our pain, to be willing to be obedient, and to submit to His plan to enable us to move forward.Read: 2 Samuel 6:1-18, Psalm 13:1-6, John 11:21
Discuss
- What reasons did Abigail give to persuade David not to take revenge? What can we learn from this?
- We all have experienced injustice and offence in our lives. Without going into details of the past events, how did you react to the offensive situation? In hindsight, how could you have responded differently?
- James 1:19 and Proverbs 15:1 provide wise counsel on how to communicate. How can we communicate in times of conflict to avoid an escalation of the situation?
- Apart from the story above, who else in the Bible was treated unjustly and suffered for it? How did they respond? Specifically, how did Joseph (in Genesis) and Jesus respond? What can we learn from that?
- Abigail is often seen as an intercessor who interceded on behalf of Nabal for David’s forgiveness. How can we do the same if we are caught in a crossfire of misunderstanding? How can we be peacemakers?
- Forgiveness is a fundamental spiritual value and practice of a believer (Colossians 3:13, Ephesians 4:32, Matthew 6:12). Why are believers able to forgive others?
- What may happen when a person chooses not to forgive, continues to hold a grudge, or takes revenge? How can such behaviour be counterproductive? See Hebrews 12:15.
- Read Psalms 24:3-6, Proverbs 25:21-22, Romans 12:19. Why is it better to trust God to bring justice in a grievous situation?
Respond
Most of us will experience times when we find ourselves disappointed with God and potentially stuck due to our circumstances. The challenge is to find a way to move forward. From the text today, here are three simple steps we can take to assist this process:David
On any given day, we all spend time in two or more of the following: listening to news, hearing an idea conveyed through music, reacting to social media, receive and send emails or texts, and conversation with colleagues, friends and family. Life is full of these types of voices, and it is not limited to verbal communications. It could be a message conveyed through an action, or our own interpretation of unfolding events. Both individually and accumulatively, these moments produce the voices we listen to and can frame the context of how we make choices. “Life is a reflection of the voices we listen to; past and present”. The voices we listen to will significantly sway the self-talk and the filter through which we interpret life and make choices.Read: 2 Samuel 15:1-14
Discuss
- David was confronted with information that may not have been completely accurate. Yet he reacts to it by fleeing and it clearly had an impact on him and the whole country. Share a moment; or a phrase; or a comment that was directed at you when you were younger, which may have shaped some part of who you are today? Does that moment, or the effect of that moment, produce thoughts and responses in you that are in sync with what God’s word says about you?
- Read 2 Corinthians 10:5. Some sources declare people have around 70,000 thoughts per day. Evidently, we’re not aware of them all. What does Paul mean by, “take every thought captive”? How do we effectively take every thought captive?
- What would be a typical moment when you have not taken your thoughts (voices) captive? Apply this to thoughts about yourself – if you haven’t done so already?
- Read 2 Samuel 15:19-21. Ittai does not do what David suggests, but he provides the faithful friendship he needs. Also, Ittai continues to refer to David as king, despite David’s actions as a fugitive. Share thoughts on why it would be beneficial to have people in our lives like Ittai?
- Whilst it’s good to have friends who will stand by our side and remind us in word and action of who we are, what can we do to remind ourselves who we are in God? How do we stop ourselves from inner thoughts and self-talk (‘Voices’) that do not declare who we are in God?
- Read 2.Sam 16:5-10. Shimei had come to an inaccurate conclusion of what had transpired 15-20 years before (perhaps he had been listening to the wrong ‘voices’) and David entertained the idea that his accuser might have a point. Have you ever been accused of something you never did; or had people form a wrong opinion of you and, even though it’s wrong, it affects you?
Respond
Instead of keeping our core temptations and sin in the dark or sweeping them under the rug, we need to name and face them. Remember that we cannot grow in shame. This week, when you are faced with temptation, what are you going to do and who are you going to tell? If you have given in to a temptation, what steps can you take this week to overcome it? Take some quiet time to pray and seek the leading of the Holy Spirit.Download PDF
David
Despite David’s personal failures, he left an incredible legacy that matched the calling of God upon his life. David rose to become an accomplished poet, musician, warrior, military leader and ultimately king. But it wasn’t just about what he accomplished, God referred to David as a “man after God’s own heart” – i.e. he was remembered for his integrity, godliness and faithfulness towards God. The biblical account states several times that “for the sake of David” and despite the mishaps of his decedents, God continue to bless them and they continued to rule for another 350 years. His name is mentioned 990 times in the Bible, more so that anyone person apart from Jesus. In fact Jesus himself was referred to as “the Root and Offspring of David” (Rev 22:16).How can we live our lives and make the right decisions to leave a good legacy?
Read: I Chronicles 18:6, 13 ; 2 Kings 8:19; Acts 13:22-23
Discuss
- Is there a person whose legacy you have been inspired by? Share this briefly.
- Read Luke 4:17-19; 1 John 3:8. What is the spiritual legacy that Jesus left us?
- “Your story will be written by the decisions you make”. Share an example of a critical decision you made to put God first resulted in a legacy left for others even though it may have costed you personally.
- Read 1 Corinthians 3:8, Ephesians 6:8 This verse teaches us that there is a heavenly reward for our works during our time on earth. Share something that you are investing your time and energy which will leave a spiritual impact for others.
- Legacy is about leaving a positive impact the lives of others which outlives our own. What are some types of ministries that you know of which has an impact for all eternity? For example, how does sharing discipling someone towards putting their trust in Jesus have a lasting and wide impact?
- Imagine you are celebrating your 90th birthday with loved ones. What are some things you would like them to say about you?
Respond
Acts 13:36 states that “ For David, after he had served his own generation by the will of God, fell asleep, was buried with his fathers”. We are all called to serve the purposes of God in our generation and leave a legacy behind for the next generation. What is one thing or person you can start to invest in to create a spiritual legacy for the next generation?Download PDF