I Kings 3 A brief introduction to Wisdom in the Bible: What is more valuable than wisdom? Solomon asked for wisdom instead of wealth or power. God is pleased with Solomon’s request. How may we acquire God’s wisdom? God’s wisdom is learned on-the-job by faith. God’s wisdom is both right and kind.

Psalm 23 We are satisfied when we follow our Shepherd Contentment with our daily needs is enough. “Shepherd” is a royal title with authority. The Good Shepherd is with us through trouble. There are dark valleys between the green pastures. The Shepherd gives joy in adversity. The Good Shepherd will lead us home. We can expect blessing in this life. The best is yet to come.

2 Samuel 11, Psalm 51 Good people can do wrong things. 2 Sam 11:1-5 David was captured by sin . No one told David he was wrong. Concealed sin does collateral damage. 2 Sam 11:8-17 David tried to cover up with more evil. David willfully transgressed God’s law. Everyone must repent. Psalm 52:1-5 David finally came clean and repented David’s repentance restored fellowship with God.

2 Samuel 9:1-13 I.     Kindness makes promises   A.    To keep a promise we must make one first.  B.    A promise changes the relationship. II.     Kindness treats people better than they deserve.  A.   Kindness is the opposite of revenge. B.    Kindness to our enemies works. God has extended kindness to His people, and through Christ we enjoy a seat at His table.

2 Samuel 7 Our natural inclination is to fulfill our own wants and desires; however, God promises us love, peace and a permanent place in His kingdom when we are in service to Him. David sees himself as a servant, he wants to build a temple out of gratitude & worship for what God has already done, not to elevate himself in some way, but to serve and honor Him with thanks. After making a…

1 Samuel 24 Why did David not kill Saul when he had the opportunity? I. Do what is right: A. The desired result reason: B. The proven character reason: II. Do what is kind. A. David took the initiative. B. David humbled himself. C. David refused to fight back. III. Walk humbly with God. S.O.P was to kill all of the last king’s children. David made a vow, not knowing the future. He has told…

The David and Goliath story is not so much a physical battle as it is a contest of ideas.

We welcome today Brian Thorstad, Church Leadership Catalyst for the Forest Lakes District of the EFCA

1 Samuel 4-7 God is powerfully for us when we put him first and powerfully against us when we don’t. God cannot be manipulated to do our will. (1 Samuel 4:1-11) Not every calamity is God’s judgment, but some are. If we don’t don’t delight in God, we have an idol. It’s not hard to figure out when God is against us. (1 Samuel 5:1-6:12) The God of her ancestors became her Savior. Giving Samuel…

1 Samuel 1 – 3 Why did Boaz redeem Ruth? What did Hannah Gain: The thing she prayed for, a son. We do not fully possess the things we grasp until we let them go. 1:28 Consider Jesus, Philippians 2:6-7 A joyful heart. The God of her ancestors became her Savior. Giving Samuel away completed her delight in God. A greater blessing than she could have imagined. Samuel had authority because he spoke in God’s…