1 Samuel 27-28

Pastor Marshall Ochs | July 16, 2023

In this message, Pastor Marshall teaches from 1 Samuel 27-28. These chapters tell the story of David moving to Ziklag and Saul seeking advice from a witch. Both situations reveal the characters walking in sin and contrast wisdom with folly. These stories help us understand that there are deep roots and consequence to waking in obedience and waking in disobedience.

Watch

Listen

Reflect

Monday:  Read 1 Samuel 27

In 1 Samuel 27, we delve into the consequences of foolish decisions. Despite being anointed by God and having experienced His faithfulness, David chose to live with the Philistines. Some argue that it was a wise decision, but we can see the sin and compromise involved upon closer examination. David decided in his heart not to seek God's guidance. God's last word to him was to live in Judah. By aligning himself with the Philistines, David became a servant to Achish instead of his true calling as a servant of God. David's compromise started in his heart and gradually spread, affecting not only him but also his family and friends. Sin and disobedience always start in our hearts. 

How can you ensure that you remain steadfast in your trust in the Lord, even when faced with difficult circumstances?

Tuesday:  Read 1 Samuel 28:1-6

In chapter 28, the narrative shifts to Saul. Saul's path is marked by disobedience and godlessness. His disobedience and failure to trust God's plan had led to his disqualification as king. God had withdrawn His favor and stopped answering Saul's prayers. Saul's actions had dire consequences. When we turn away from God and think we can create our own paths or solutions, we will find ourselves on the path of foolishness. Let us guard our hearts and seek to align ourselves with God's Word.

Have you ever found yourself on a godless path, away from God's guidance and authority? Reflect on the statement that sin doesn't bring peace but only destruction. How does this truth resonate with you? How can you cultivate a heart that desires obedience to God's Word, knowing that it leads to true peace and joy?

Wednesday: Read 1 Samuel 28:7-14

In this chapter, we witness Saul's desperate attempt to seek guidance from the spirit realm, even though he had banned mediums. God does not forbid us from these practices because they are fake or make-believe but because they are real and extremely dangerous. Engaging in these forbidden practices opens you up to demonic deception. Demons can masquerade as angels, or the dead offering knowledge and false solutions. The risks are significant, and the consequences are dire. As followers of Christ, we are called to recognize His Lordship and submit to His authority alone. Let us avoid the forbidden paths that lead to deception, destruction, and separation from God. May we remain steadfast in our faith, trusting in the guidance of the Holy Spirit and the wisdom found in God's Word.

Have you ever been tempted to seek guidance from sources outside of God's Word? How can you reaffirm your commitment to Christ as Lord over your life?

Thursday: Read 1 Samuel 28: 15-25

Saul's desperate plea for guidance finally receives an answer, but it is not what he hoped for. Samuel's message to Saul is one of impending doom and death. The consequences of Saul's sinful choices are severe: he and his sons will die, and Israel will lose the battle against the Philistines. Saul's story is a stark reminder that sin does not bring peace; it leads to destruction. The path of the fool, characterized by disobedience and godlessness, may seem appealing in the moment, but its consequences are far-reaching and eternal. Let us take heed and examine our own lives. Are we walking in outright rebellion or, like David, choosing our own path because we don't understand God's? Instead, let us choose to walk the course of the wise, obedient to God's Word, and not rely on our own understanding but in all our ways acknowledge Him and know He will indeed direct our paths.

Do you fully grasp the consequences of sin and the importance of obedience? How can you encourage others to choose the path of obedience?

Heavenly Father, help me understand the gravity of sin and its consequences. Help me to understand that choosing my own path is sin.  Give me a heart that desires obedience to Your Word. Grant me wisdom and discernment to make choices that honor You and lead to a life of blessing. May my life be a testimony to others, encouraging them to walk in obedience as well. In Jesus' name, amen.

Friday: Read 1 Samuel 29-30

1 Samuel 25-26

Pastor Marshall Ochs | July 9, 2023

In this message, Pastor Marshall teaches from 1 Samuel 25-26. These chapters include the altercation between David and Nabal, and the final interaction between David and Saul. These chapters reveal a powerful lesson about letting go of vengeance and letting God fight your battles. The story is cast against a backdrop of wise characters and foolish characters and begs the reader to consider what path they walk.

Watch

Listen

Reflect

1. Read 1 Samuel 25:1-11. Saul hunted David for over 10 years. David lived in the wilderness during those years. Many lessons are learned while going through a wilderness experience. Can you remember a wilderness experience in your life? Are you currently enduring a wilderness experience? These times teach us how much we need the Lord and can depend on Him to deliver us. What did you learn or are you learning as a result of your time in the wilderness?

2. Marshall pointed out that we can easily depend on ourselves and become arrogant just like Nabal. Nabal was foolish to reject David’s message of peace and generosity. We can often become too self-sufficient and not embrace what God is offering us because we have our own agenda. We are not willing to take the crown off of our own heads and bend the knee to the Lord. In what ways have you been relying on your own strength and desire to do things your own way?

3. Read 1 Samuel 25:12-22. David is angered by Nabal’s answer and wants revenge. When someone hurts you or offends you, it’s easy to desire retaliation. However, we are reminded in Deuteronomy 32:35 that vengeance is the Lord’s. Marshall reminded us that revenge has no place in the heart of God’s people, and heated reactions in the moment are not the solution. Are you dealing with an injustice that has been done to you? Pray and ask the Lord to fight this battle for you and help you to react in the situation as He would have you to.

4. Read 1 Samuel 25:23-38. We see Abigail plead with David not to retaliate against her husband. She reminds David that his character is well known and to not ruin it by killing Nabal. Praise the Lord for Abigail having wisdom and reminding David to trust the Lord. Proverbs 1:20 & 8:1 speak to the importance and value of wisdom. David listens and obeys, and the Lord delivers him and destroys Nabal. We must exercise humility and not let our anger destroy our character. As believers, we are witnesses to the Lord’s presence in our lives. When we lash out in anger, we ruin our witness and others will not trust us. Is there someone in your life that you need to ask for forgiveness in how you treated them? Be humble and work towards reconciliation.

5. Read 1 Samuel 25:39-44. We see David having more than one wife. God allowed this, but it came with suffering and pain. We are not meant to go beyond God’s boundaries and when we do, we suffer from our foolishness. Is there an area of your life that where you are doing things outside of God’s will and you are suffering the consequences? Lay down your selfish desires, listen to God’s instruction and obey.

6. Read 1 Samuel 26:1-11. David learned his lesson and went on to teach that lesson to his nephew. When God brings us through and wilderness experience, we need to use those lessons to teach others in order to help keep them from the same wilderness experience. This is especially true when parents teach their children important lessons we’ve learned from our experiences.

7. Read 1 Samuel 26:12-25. David confronts Saul and Saul repents, but David doesn’t trust him. David is learning important leadership lessons. Your word means everything. People need to be able to trust what you say. Godly leaders should have wisdom and integrity. Can people trust what you say? Can they depend on you? If you have struggled to be a man or woman of your word, ask the Lord to help you become so. Spend time daily in God’s word and in prayer. Do this so that you may know Him better, allowing Him to mold your character to reflect Him more to others.

1 Samuel 23-24

Pastor Marshall Ochs | July 2, 2023

In this message, Pastor Marshall teaches from 1 Samuel 23-24. These chapters include David saving the city of Keilah from the Philistines and David confronting Saul at Engedi. These wandering years were formative for David. They shaped his character, his friends, his family, and his view of God. As we study these chapters, our hearts are formed as well.

Watch

Listen

Reflect

Monday: Read 1 Samuel 23

David inquires of God, seeking guidance and direction in the face of uncertainty. God speaks to us in various ways, sometimes through His Word, sometimes through godly counsel, and other times through thoughts inspired by the Holy Spirit. One thing we can be sure of is if we are given counsel from a place of fear, that is not from God.

What steps can we take to discern whether the counsel we receive is rooted in fear or from a place of godly wisdom?

Tuesday: Read 1 Samuel 23

This passage teaches us a valuable lesson: possessing a title does not automatically make someone a leader; their character truly matters. Despite Saul holding the title of King, he proved himself unworthy of true leadership. His self-absorption, bitterness, and delusions led him to misuse his position to punish the individual whom God had chosen as King.

Furthermore, the passage highlights the undeniable sovereignty of God over every aspect of our lives. It prompts us to reflect on our own tendencies to overlook the work that God is constantly doing around us. It is easy to attribute the minor occurrences in life to mere coincidences, disregarding the divine influence behind them. Therefore, may we set aside time today for meditation, contemplating the sovereignty of God over every intricate detail.

Wednesday: Read 1 Samuel 23

In this passage, Jonathan offers words of encouragement to David. The English Standard Version says that Jonathan helped him find strength in God. Just as Jonathan helped David find strength in the divine presence of God, we are reminded that our Creator has designed us to live in a community with other believers.

As we embark on our own journey to follow Jesus, we are called to uplift and encourage our friends. How can we encourage and strengthen those around us as they pursue their walk with Jesus Christ?

Thursday: Read 1 Samuel 23:15-29 & 24

Have you ever found yourself in a space where your heart yearns for something so deeply that you start perceiving every opportunity as a pathway to fulfill your desires? How acquainted are you with the voice of God, enabling you to distinguish His guidance from your own inclination to manipulate or manufacture outcomes? Are you prone to interpreting every sign as divine provision solely to attain what you want?

In this passage, we see Saul offer blessings from the LORD to those who revealed David's location to him. At times, our desires can be so overwhelming that they overshadow our ability to discern God's will accurately. We may become susceptible to self-deception, convincing ourselves that every opportunity or circumstance is tailor-made to grant us our heart's desires. Recognizing the voice of God requires intentional effort and a genuine relationship with Him. It involves spending time in prayer, immersing ourselves in His Word, and seeking His guidance wholeheartedly.

Friday: Read 1 Samuel 25-26

1 Samuel 21-22

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.

Watch

Listen

Reflect

1. 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.

2. 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?

3. 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?

4. 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!

5. 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?

6. 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!

1 Samuel 19-20

Pastor Marshall Ochs | June 18, 2023

In this message, Pastor Marshall teaches from 1 Samuel 19-20. These chapters cover the final days of David in Saul’s court. Saul’s jealousy against David has turned to murder, and the king makes multiple plans to eliminate David. However, with each attempt of murder, Saul fails miserably because God is protecting David. This story reveals profound insights on the multitude of ways God saves His people, and foreshadows the gospel in wonderful ways.

Watch

Listen

Reflect

Monday: Read 1 Samuel 18:1-4 & 1 Samuel 19:1-7

As I've delved into 1 Samuel in my recent weeks of study, I couldn't help but be struck by the remarkable friendship between David and Jonathan. This reflection led me to ponder the friendships in my own life. What stood out to me was the foundation of their bond—unconditional and rooted in their deep commitment to God and His divine plan. Their friendship was not transactional, built on using each other for personal gain. It was a friendship that exemplified the truth that a true friend loves at all times. They shared a level of transparency that was truly remarkable.

Let us take a moment to reflect on the individuals we have chosen to surround ourselves with as friends. Do our friendships mirror the profound connection between Jonathan and David, where our commitment to God and His Kingdom forms the bedrock of our bond? Are we blessed with friendships that transcend personal agendas and self-interest, rooted instead in a shared pursuit of God's will?

As we evaluate our friendships, may we seek to foster relationships that reflect the principles of love, trust, and transparency. Let us prioritize companionships that inspire and encourage us in our spiritual journey. And may we, in turn, be faithful friends, committed to supporting and uplifting others in their pursuit of God's Kingdom.

Take this time for self-reflection, and may you discover and cultivate friendships that emulate the deep, meaningful connection found between Jonathan and David, founded on a shared commitment to God and His Kingdom.

Tuesday: Read 1 Samuel 19 and Psalm 59

Studying the events of 1 Samuel 19, we witness the resurgence of conflict as David once more engages in battle against the Philistines, emerging triumphant. However, this victory served as a catalyst for Saul's rekindled envy, hatred, and renewed attempts to take David's life. While most of us may not be facing a literal life-or-death situation, we may be confronted with circumstances that evoke immense fear. Considering this, we can draw lessons from David's unwavering focus and perspective amidst such suffering.

David's heart remained steadfast and resolute throughout his trials. Despite Saul's relentless pursuit, David firmly believed that God was his protector, strength, and fortress. We see in Psalm 59 David declared those truths! He also said, “God will go before me”! David's example teaches us the value of declaring God’s truth over every situation, reminding our souls that nothing can touch us without going through the Mighty Hand of God.

Wednesday: Read 1 Samuel 20

As we move into 1 Samuel 20, we learn more about the friendship between David and Jonathan. Let us reflect on the gospel message that resonates within their story. Jonathan's extraordinary act of selflessness, surrender, and humility in surrendering his own life serves as a powerful meditation on the essence of the gospel.

Thursday: Read 1 Samuel 20

As we witness Jonathan surrender his crown and kingdom to a better king, will you come before Jesus today and lay everything at His feet in complete surrender? Friday: Read 1 Samuel 21-22

1 Samuel 17-18

Pastor Marshall Ochs | June 11, 2023

In this message, Pastor Marshall teaches from 1 Samuel 17-18. These chapters tell the story of David and Goliath, as well as the further dismantling of Saul’s kingdom. David triumphs over Goliath, but Saul burns with jealousy. The story is about faith in God and learning to keep your eyes on the Lord, not giants in the land.

Watch

Listen

Reflect

1. Read 1 Samuel 17:1-11. In this passage we are introduced to Goliath, a Philistine giant from Gath. Goliath was 9’9” tall. Marshall pointed out that Goliath was not the only giant recorded in scripture. (For reference read 2 Samuel 21:15-22 and 1 Chronicles 20:4-8) Fallen angels had taken human wives and created a bloodline of giants. (Please see Marshall’s notes for references in Deuteronomy 2.) In Joshua 11:21-23 we read that all the Anakim were destroyed except for a few in Gaza, Ashdod and Gath – which were Philistine cities. As a result of the Israelites not fully obeying God in their earlier conquests, we see how this resulted in the existence of Goliath. Partial obedience is still disobedience! Our disobedience can lead to consequences that have lasting effects for both us and others. Have you been living in partial obedience to God and thinking that it’s good enough?

2. Read 1 Samuel 17:12-29. We see David demonstrating real faith! He wasn’t focused on Goliath’s outward appearance, but rather on how great his God is! Do we demonstrate this kind of faith when facing the “giants” in our lives? Are we intimidated by the size of our problems, or do we stand in faith and awe of how great our God is?!

3. Read 1 Samuel 17:40-51. David’s motivation for challenging Goliath was so that the whole earth would know that Yahweh is Lord and so that God’s people would remember that he doesn’t save with sword and spear. No one on the battlefield had faith! The real issue here wasn’t Goliath – it was the sin of unbelief! Are you currently dealing with the sin of unbelief? Are you struggling to trust God in your circumstances? Whatever your giants are, God is bigger!

4. This story of David and Goliath is a foreshadowing of Jesus and his triumph over death, sin and the grave! When we see Christ’s victory over death, we should have the courage to face the lesser giants in our lives. (i.e., pain, sickness, insecurity, anxiety, fear, addiction, finances, career or world politics.) List the giants you’re facing in your life and then look at Jesus! Your giants crumble before Christ!

5. Read 1 Samuel 18:6-16 & 22-30. Unlike Saul, David trusted God. No matter what Saul tried to do to David he kept his eyes fixed on God and not at the problems. Like David, we must live out our faith. Fix your eyes on Jesus! Trust Him and fully obey Him!

1 Samuel 15-16

Pastor Marshall Ochs | June 4, 2023

In this message, Pastor Marshall teaches from 1 Samuel 15-16. These chapters record the continued dismantling of Saul’s kingdom and the anointing of Saul’s replacement. The new king is a young man named David who is described as a neighbor of Saul, but better than Saul. The Lord regrets making Saul king and this story uncovers Saul’s sin and a powerful sermon from Samuel on the importance of obedience over sacrifice.

Watch

Listen

Reflect

Monday: Read 1 Samuel 15

When we rely solely on our limited human understanding, the instructions given to us by God can often leave us feeling confused, frustrated, or scared. These emotions can lead us to attempt negotiations or only partially follow His plan.

In 1 Samuel 15:3, the prophet Samuel relayed God's explicit command to Saul: "Attack the Amalekites and utterly destroy all that belongs to them." However, only a few verses later, we discover that Saul and his men obeyed only part of the Lord's instructions. Instead of carrying out complete destruction, they spared Agag, the king of the Amalekites, and kept the best of the livestock, including sheep, cattle, and other valuable possessions.

Reflecting upon your own experiences, consider a time when you obeyed God's command, even when it didn't make sense or frightened you. How did you feel during that period? What were the outcomes of your obedience? Now, in the present moment, what is God asking you to do? How will you respond to His call?

Tuesday: Read 1 Samuel 15, Psalm 40, Jeremiah 7:21-23 & Hebrews 10:8-9

Will you spend time asking the Holy Spirit to reveal if there are any areas you are not walking in complete obedience?

Wednesday: Read 1 Samuel 16

Like Samuel, we tend to judge others solely based on outward appearance; instead, we should focus on discerning God's heart and mind when perceiving individuals. While everyone can see our faces, only God knows the true nature of our hearts. Is your heart aligned with God’s desires?

Thursday: Read 1 Samuel 16

Have you ever experienced instances of ineffective leadership? When faced with serving under such leaders, many of us often seek ways to escape from the situation. Instead, however, we should seek guidance from God and be open to what lessons He wants to teach us.

Friday: Read 1 Samuel 17-18

1 Samuel 13-14

Pastor Marshall Ochs | May 28, 2023

In this message, Pastor Marshall teaches from 1 Samuel 13-14. These chapters record the unraveling of Saul’s kingdom. Saul’s disobedience in obeying the Lord’s command brought ruin on his lineage and the Lord sought a new king after his own heart. This tragic tale shows how insecurity and disobedience has deep consequences and communicates a warning for all who consider their words as more valuable than the Lord’s.

Watch

Listen

Reflect

1. Read 1 Samuel 13. We see in this story the distinct contrast between Saul and his son, Jonathan’s approach to following God. Saul deferred to his own plans and ideas rather than the Lord’s. The sin of pride is glaring here! Jonathan had faith in God, His provision and instruction. Saul tried to force God’s hand of blessing by following religious practices and not the Lord’s instructions. Taking honest inventory of your life, where do you find yourself? Have you been prideful and followed your plans rather than the Lord’s? Are you following certain religious practices you prefer and expecting God to bless you, while you ignore and disobey other instruction from the Lord?

2. Samuel, (God’s prophet and voice to the Israelites) instructed Saul to wait 7 days for him to come and bring an offering. However, Saul decided to take matters into his own hands when he didn’t think the circumstances were working out the way he thought they should. Saul wanted favor from God without obedience, and he desired popularity and fame from the people more than he desired God. Saul forgot that the throne belonged to God! Saul was a steward of what God had entrusted to him. Do you see this in your life? Do you see that you are merely a steward of all God has given you? (Family, time, career, money, possessions, etc.) Have you forgotten who sits on the throne of your life?

3. Read 1 Samuel 14. Saul looked at circumstances, but Jonathan looked to God. When we look at God, our circumstances don’t seem to matter. Like Jonathan, we must cling to faith over fear or obstacles. Jonathan didn’t have a good father figure, but he didn’t let that keep him from pursuing his faith in God. Have you allowed your family, friends, life’s challenges or personal desires to keep you from pursuing God?

4. It is tragic to live a nice comfortable life without the Lord! Those who choose to use religion as a means to seek God’s blessing without true obedience to God will be swept away. They will find themselves without the Lord! How tragic that would be! Please pray over this message this week and listen to what the Lord is instructing you to do. Be obedient and do as He tells you!