SUMMARY: Persecution
OVERVIEW: Saul is still intimidated by David and continues to attempt to kill him. God and not his emotions lead David.
BIG IDEA: Cling to God during difficult times.
KEY VERSE: 1 Samuel 19:1–2 (Jonathan protects David)
Saul now urged his servants and his son Jonathan to assassinate David. But Jonathan, because of his strong affection for David, told him what his father was planning. “Tomorrow morning,” he warned him, “you must find a hiding place out in the fields.”
IF GOD WROTE YOU A LETTER
Do not be overwhelmed by the things of the world. There will be chaos and hatred and envy and strife until my Son returns with judgment. But in all the terror and confusion, you will find me. Come to me, and I will bring you peace. Come to me, and I will protect you and provide for you. I do not promise you will go unscathed, but nothing will happen outside of my will. Seeking me and staying with me is the best place to be.
You cannot control what others think or do, but you can manage your response. You can control how you use your time and energy. Practice taking steps of faith in all seasons of life, to prepare you for seasons of stress. Develop the habit of spending time with me, so that is a normal response regardless of your circumstances. Come to me and live. Find me in times of peace and in times of torment or doubt.
NEXT STEP
Instead of focusing on how much you dislike someone or planning how to defeat them in some manner, spend time bringing your anger and frustration to God. Talk to God about specific feelings, and don’t hold back. If possible, conclude by finding some ways to pray for the person with whom you struggle. Pray for their family or their relationship with God—or both.
LYRIC VIDEO