
September 29, 2024 Service
1 Samuel 18:1-9 (Read the entire passage)
“And when he had finished speaking to Saul, the soul of Jonathan was knit to the soul of David, and Jonathan loved him as his own soul. 2 And Saul took him that day and would not let him return to his father’s house. 3 Then Jonathan made a covenant with David, because he loved him as his own soul. 4 And Jonathan stripped himself of the robe that was on him and gave it to David, and his armor, and even his sword and his bow and his belt. 5 And David went out and was successful wherever Saul sent him. So Saul set him over the men of war. And this was good in the sight of all the people and also in the sight of Saul’s servants. 6 As they were coming home, when David returned from striking down the Philistine, the women came out of all the cities of Israel, singing and dancing, to meet King Saul, with tambourines, with songs of joy, and with musical instruments. 7 And the women sang to one another as they celebrated, “Saul has struck down his thousands, and David his ten thousands.” 8 And Saul was very angry, and this saying displeased him. He said, “They have ascribed to David ten thousands, and to me they have ascribed thousands, and what more can he have but the kingdom?” 9 And Saul eyed David from that day on.” (18:1-9)
This passage captures a pivotal moment in the lives of David and Jonathan, establishing themes of friendship, rivalry, and divine purpose. Jonathan’s immediate love for David shows a profound recognition of God’s anointing on him, while Saul’s growing jealousy signifies a deep-seated fear and insecurity. This tension asks us to reflect on how we respond to God’s will in our own lives.
Here’s the bottom line of this story…
• Jonathan represents the response of those who recognize and support God’s will, even when it challenges their own ambitions.
• Saul represents the fear and jealousy that can arise when we feel our power threatened by God’s will.
Ultimately, we are called to respond to the Messiah with humility and recognition of His sovereignty. As we reflect on this, we are reminded that God’s plans transcend our understanding, inviting us into a deeper dependency on Him and a deeper love for one another.
Reflection
1. What stands out to you about Jonathan and Saul’s reaction to David’s success?
2. In what ways can you identify with Saul’s jealousy? What is the Lord revealing about your heart?
3. How might God be calling you to embrace humility and support the work He is doing in the lives of those around you in this season?
Psalm 37:23-24
”The steps of a good man are ordered by the Lord,
And He delights in his way.
Though he fall, he shall not be utterly cast down;
For the Lord upholds him with His hand.”
COMMUNITY GROUP DISCUSSION
Share what God has done in your heart this week with your community group and/or friends.
1. Read 1 Samuel 18:1-9 – How do you typically view the relationships depicted in this passage? What stands out to you?
2. How does Jonathan’s covenant with David challenge or inspire you in your friendships? Can you think of a time when loyalty played a significant role in your relationships?
3. How does this story inform our understanding of God’s sovereignty and His plans for us? In what ways have you seen God at work in your life? What about the lives of others?
4. What do Saul’s reactions teach us about the dangers of envy and fear in the context of God’s soverign plans? How can these feelings manifest in our own lives today?
5. How can jealousy be a misunderstanding of the gospel in our lives? What truths from the gospel can help us combat jealousy?
6. How can we support each other in overcoming jealousy or envy within our community?
7. Pray together.