As we enter into the last third of 1 Samuel, we are fully immersed in the life of David. He and Saul have something of a love-hate relationship. David was married to Saul's daughter and was close friends with his son, Jonathan. At the same time, David had been anointed king, but Saul was still king. It's the makings of a current-day drama series! David had a few opportunities to take out Saul, but honored God's timing and allowed God's plan to unfold. Things will remain unstable, even after Saul's death. But God has a plan for David! As you read, try to pay attention to how God is preparing David to rule his people and to move the people from a fledgling nation to a strong nation. Be sure to check out the blog for the guiding questions as you read and for the opportunity to interact with each other. We enter our rhythm of LEARN-READ-INTERACT.

From How to Read the Bible through the Jesus Lens, Michael Williams makes these points about 1 & 2 Samuel:

Phrase: Exalted and humbled

Theme: God exalts the weak and humbles the proud.

Christ-Focus: God has exalted the humbled Christ (Philippians 2:5-11).

Implications: We should serve God in humility while we await our exaltation in Christ (James 4:10; 1 Peter 5:6).

Questions: What have you bragged about lately? Does the source of your pride focus on God, or on yourself?

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