We often believe we know what will bring a better life—trusting in leaders, institutions, or our own efforts to mend what’s broken. Yet, time and again, these hopes fall short.

The story of Israel’s first kings—Saul, David, and Solomon—captures the hope and heartbreak of human leadership. Each begins with great potential but stumbles in failure, mirroring our own shortcomings and revealing our deeper need. Together, they point to Jesus, the true King we’ve always longed for.