King Saul looks impressive on the surface, but when placed under pressure the cracks begin to show. He was more concerned with doing what seems right rather than doing what God says. Christians can fall into the same trap of putting up godly appearances while living disobedient lives. But God doesn't just want right actions, but the right heart as well. Our true character is revealed when we are under pressure, and will ultimately be revealed on the last day when God will judge us according to our hearts (1 Samuel 13:1-14)

In spite of all that God has done for Israel, they have been unfaithful to Him time and time again. As they realise the gravity for their sin, they cower in fear before God. But Samuel tells them not to be afraid. Such is God's commitment to His people that he forgives them again and again. This same grace is shown to those who have become God's people through Christ. No matter how great our sin is, His grace is greater still (1 Samuel 12:1-15)

When Israel was threatened by the Ammonites, people had doubts whether their new king Saul was capable of saving them. He responded by rallying an army together and defeating their enemies. But victory was not due to Saul's ability but because God was working to rescue them. In the same way, many people doubt whether a crucified man from 2,000 years ago can save us now. But Jesus is the Saviour King from God who came to rescue us from our sin by his death and resurrection (1 Samuel 11:1-15)

This week we look at Israel under the leadership of Saul the first king.

We are reminded that our confidence is in the Word of God. Human leaders are important but only if they remain faithful to the Word of God (1 Samuel 10:17-27)

Through the account of Saul being anointed king we are reminded that we serve an extraordinary God who enables us to serve in the power of His Holy Spirit (1 Samuel 1)

This week we take a look at Israel's demands for a king and how God provides for this request (1 Samuel 8:1-22)

We need to remember and don't forget God's grace in our lives. May the song we sing remind us of, repent and trust in our God as we remember God's goodness to us (1 Samuel 2:7-17)

Through this account in 1 Samuel, we are reminded that it is God alone who achieves victory. He is perfectly capable of doing this Himself, He chooses us is an act of God's grace. We are also reminded that those who disobey God will be brought to judgement (1 Samuel 5:1-12)

We see God's glory not in an ark but in the person of Jesus - whom we find assurance of God's commitment to us. We don't need an ark to know God is with us, but His spirit lives in us and cannot be taken away from us (1 Samuel 4:1-11)

This week we're reminded the importance of treasuring God's Word, the Word through which God leads His church and our lives. Israel was a nation that was lost however God raised Samuel to deliver His Word to all Israel (1 Samuel 3:1-4:1)