The King Beneath the Tangled Crown (Part 3: Poet)
Shepherd. Outcast. Poet. Giant-killer. Warrior. Fugitive. King. Sinner. Man after God’s own heart. Welcome to our new series, an in-depth exploration of the life—and many hats—of David.
Read 1 Samuel 16:10-13.
1.What happens immediately after David is anointed as king? What do you make of this?
2. What do you think was going through David’s mind returning to the fields after being anointed king? How would you feel?
3. Have you ever expected something from God that didn’t happen immediately, or in the way you may have expected it to happen? Discuss.
Read 1 Samuel 16:14.
4. In the podcast and sermon, Pete explained that an ancient understanding of the phrase “an evil spirit from the Lord” would be more like “an evil spirit allowed by the Lord.” How does this interpretation affect the verse’s meaning for you?
5. What do you make of the idea that God often honors our free will by allowing us to have our own way? What are the effects of this “allowing”?
Read 1 Samuel 16:17-23.
6. How do you think the poetry of David (such as Psalm 23) came out of his experiences waiting in the wilderness for God’s will to be fulfilled?
7. What does the fact that David waited for God to act show about his faith? What lesson do you take away from this?
8. Do you ever lean on poetry, music, or song to help you through difficult times? Talk about how worship has drawn you closer to God.
9. To close, look again at verse 23. Although Saul has walked away from God, God has not abandoned Saul. Reflect together on God’s great mercy and faithfulness for us, even when we resist.
(*Video available after Sunday services)
