Two Different Kingly Strategies: 2 Samuel 2-5
David
-
- Encouraged those around him - 2 Sam. 2:4-7
- Surrounded himself with
- Was
- Knew that the Lord was with him - 2 Sam. 5:12
Ish-bosheth
- Listened to
- Approached those around him with skepticism and doubt - 2 Sam. 3:7-8
- Was
- Courage and strength were found in present circumstances - 2 Sam. 4:1
Questions to Ask:
What is God calling you to do right now?
Who can go with you?
When will this be done by?
Community Group Chats
What does it reveal about God that He gives us glimpses of the stories of Nimrod, Peleg, and
Achan in the genealogies of 1 Chronicles 1-2?Knowing that the Israelites will eventually go into exile at some point in the future, is it easier or harder for you to watch them wander off into sin repeatedly? Does it make it easier knowing God will bring them back to the land eventually? Would your perspective change if you were the one they were sinning against? Why or why not?
David repeatedly “preaches the gospel to himself ” in the Psalms, reminding himself of the truth of God’s goodness amidst all his trials. How often do your thoughts and emotions lie to you? How often do you need to be reminded of the truth? Have you made this a part of your regular prayer life or thought life? If so, what does that look like?
In Psalm 73 and Psalm 78, Asaph gives us two examples of what it’s like to have a change in
perspective. When his focus is on himself or others, he grows bitter toward God. When his focus is on God and His goodness, he is humbled and repents. How have you seen this kind of transition play out in your own life? Can you think of a recent time when your mind has been renewed?Read Psalm 92:1-2 aloud. The psalmist says it’s good to bookend our days with praise. What
are some ways you’ve incorporated the practice of praise into your days? What are some new
things you’re excited to try?How can we respond, as a group and individually, to what we have learned about God’s character this week?