Pastor Marshall Ochs | June 25, 2023
In this message, Pastor Marshall teaches from 1 Samuel 21-22. These chapters cover the early days of David running from Saul. This is a dark season in David’s life, but he learns a lot about himself and the Lord. The season is pivotal in shaping David to rule over Israel with a heart like God.
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Read 1 Samuel 21:1-9. David seeks help in Nob from the priest, Ahimelech as he is running from Saul. The bread was for the priests, but David requested it because he wanted God to be with him and take care of him. Bread has always been a reminder to us that God has always been with us, provided for us and continues to care for His children. We are to remember His ultimate provision for us through His son, Jesus, when we take communion. When you think of God’s presence and provision in your life, what comes to mind? Pray and take the time to thank Him for all that He has done for you, provided for you – especially through the sacrifice of His son, Jesus.
Read 1 Samuel 21:10-15. David asked to take Goliath’s sword because he thought he could depend on it and his reputation for his defeat of Goliath to keep him safe. God stripped David of his reputation and humbled him. In Psalm 34 we see what David learned through this. To what or to whom do you lean on for comfort, refuge or safety?
Read 1 Samuel 22:1-5. David is learning many lessons as he continues to seek safety and refuge. He leaves Gath, hides in Adullam and then moves on to seek help from the king in Moab. Marshall reminded us today that the people of God don’t need to depend on past successes, careers, titles, status or relationships for comfort or security. We may even live in our past spiritual experiences we’ve had as some type of comfort. We can’t live in the past! The question is, “What is God doing in your life currently?!” Are you actively pursuing a relationship with Him and following what/where He is leading you?
Read 1 Samuel 22:6-10. We see Saul having a pity party and an angry fit. Saul is always angry and ready to strike anyone who he sees as a threat. Do you struggle with anger? Do you desire people to fear you and walk on eggshells around you? Does intimidation give you feelings of power? Intimidation is not strength, it’s a misguided attempt to control. Parents, be careful that you are not alienating your children by making them fear you. Husbands and wives, be mindful of how you treat your spouse. Bosses at work, watch how you treat your employees. If this is something you struggle with, repent and ask the Lord to help you change your attitude!
Read 1 Samuel 22:11-23. Saul sentences the priesthood to death for helping David and Doeg is all too willing to carry it out. Ahimelech’s son, Abiathar escapes and reports to David. The Lord teaches David through this that if you give room for the enemy, he will exploit you every time. The massacre wasn’t David’s fault, but the enemy exploited a moment of weakness and people were hurt because of it. Marshall reminded us that we must put on the full armor of God (Eph. 6:10-17), and we must not store up and depend on provisions for the flesh (Rom. 13:14). We must address every sinful practice, or it will destroy us! Our leadership model comes from the Lord – not the world! Read Mark 10:42-45 to see the contrast between how the world uses power to lord over others, and the Lord comforts, protects and serves. In what ways is God asking you to change your daily habits and leadership style to be in right relationship with God and others?
Read Psalm 52. Let us trust in the Lord, His provision and instruction. Then we will be like the green olive tree, fruitful, pruned, cared for and secure. We are not alone or forgotten. We are not worthless! Christ has made us worthy! Let’s cling to Him and live out His will for us!