In 1 Samuel 21–23, David is a fugitive, Saul is on the throne, and the situation feels uncertain and unstable. Yet as the narrative unfolds, a clear pattern emerges. Access to God, direction from God, blessing by God, and clarity about God are not found with Saul, the visible king, but with David, the rejected one in the wilderness. By following the inspired story across these related scenes, we begin to see that God is making it unmistakably clear where his true king is—and where he is not. This passage of Scripture not only sharpens our discernment, but also points us beyond David to the greater King, the Lord Jesus Christ, in whom God’s presence, guidance, and favour are perfectly revealed.

In a world marked by instability, uncertainty, and shifting identity, where do we turn for security? In 1 Samuel 20, we find David in a moment of deep vulnerability—hunted, displaced, and unsure of what lies ahead. Yet instead of grasping for control or crafting a plan, he runs to something far more secure: covenant. Through his relationship with Jonathan, we see how covenant provides shelter in chaos, showcases an uncommon faithfulness, carries real cost, and ultimately brings a peace that circumstances cannot give. As we follow this unfolding account, we are invited to consider our own lives. Where do we run when everything feels uncertain? And what does it mean for us, today, to be held—not by circumstance—but by the covenant love of God fulfilled in Christ?

We often assume that resisting God’s will and ways carry little consequence—that we can delay obedience, hold back, or quietly push against what he is doing without much cost. But 1 Samuel 19:18–24 tells a different story. As Saul relentlessly opposes God’s chosen king, his defiance reaches a breaking point. God steps in—not only to interrupt Saul’s plans, but to expose and overrule them completely. What Saul tries to control collapses under the power of God’s Spirit. This passage confronts us with a sobering truth: resistance to God does not simply fail—it is ultimately overruled and revealed. The question for us is urgent and personal: will we yield to what God is doing, or continue resisting until he brings our resistance to an end?

In 1 Samuel 18–19, as God advances his plans and purposes by raising up David as king, people begin to respond. Some—like Jonathan, Michal, and the people—recognize what God is doing and align themselves with it in trust and loyalty. Others—like Saul—resist, attempting to control, manipulate, and oppose what God has clearly set in motion. The result is striking: alignment leads to participation in God’s work and blessing, while resistance leads to fear, frustration, and instability. This passage confronts God’s people with the same reality today. God is still at work—saving the lost, sanctifying his people, and building his church. The question is not whether God is advancing his purposes, but whether we are aligned with them. Will we stand in step with God—or stand in his way?

Sermon from 2026 Easter service. Josiah Boyd preaching.

Sermon from March 29, 2026 service. Josiah Boyd preaching.

Sermon from March 22, 2026 service. Brian Hartnett preaching.

In a world that prizes visible strength, proven experience, and measurable success, it is easy to assume that security and victory belong to those who appear most impressive. Yet Scripture repeatedly challenges that instinct. In 1 Samuel 17, a familiar battlefield becomes the setting for a deeper revelation about how God’s people are meant to interpret reality. While fear spreads through the ranks of those who evaluate life by outward appearance, faith emerges in the heart of one who measures circumstances by the presence and power of the living God. This passage invites us to reconsider what truly determines courage, stability, and hope. As we follow the unfolding contrast between human perception and divine perspective, we are reminded that the decisive battles of life are not won by stature, resources, or reputation, but by trusting the Lord whose purposes and promises transcend what we see.

In 1 Samuel 16, a kingdom teeters between turmoil and peace. Saul still sits on the throne, a king who seems strong, capable, and in control—but the Spirit of the Lord has departed from him. Fear replaces faith, and his world begins to unravel. At the same time, a young shepherd named David, unnoticed by most, is quietly anointed and filled with God’s Spirit. Where Saul falters, David brings relief and calm—not because of his skill, his appearance, or his position, but because the presence of God rests upon him. This passage challenges readers to ask: where is true stability found? What gives life, clarity, and peace in the midst of chaos? It reveals that the presence of God—not power, titles, or human strength—determines the fate of hearts, lives, and even kingdoms.

Sermon from March 1, 2026 service. Cliff Donaldson preaching.