Unlike earthly kings who take, Jesus is the true Shepherd-King who lovingly seeks and cares for His people. Like the magi, we’re invited to worship Him with joyful hearts and open hands.

Advent reveals Jesus as the true King who came not to take, but to give—offering His life to free us from sin. His birth fulfills God’s ancient promise of Immanuel, God with us. This King rescues and restores His people through His perfect life, death, and resurrection.

Advent calls us to behold our true King—Jesus—who doesn’t take or enslave like counterfeit kings, but generously gives, humbly serves, and powerfully redeems. As we prepare our hearts, we turn from false altars and return to the One who alone brings freedom and restoration.

Solomon drifted from wisdom to desire, forgetting the God he once worshiped with his whole heart. Jesus—greater than Solomon—calls us back to true wisdom and anchors our hearts in Him alone.

When David’s pride led him to count his army instead of trusting God, the Lord’s mercy turned judgment into redemption—reminding us that even when our numbers don’t add up, His grace always does.

Unmet expectations can breed disappointment and rebellion, as seen in Absalom’s story. When ours go unmet, we’re called to bring them to Jesus and trust His goodness over our expectations.

David’s crisis at Ziklag shows that repentance is a U-turn—a return from self-reliance and off-roading with sin to strengthening ourselves in the Lord and seeking His will. When we turn back, God meets us with guidance, provision, and restoration so He—not we—gets the glory.

When countless voices compete for our attention, true wisdom is learning to listen—not to the loudest voice, but to the Lord’s.

Waiting is not wasted time—it’s sacred space where faith is tested, patience is trained, and hope grows stronger. Like David, we can wait well by being honest with God, holding fast to His promises, and leaning on the encouragement of faithful friends.

Cast your crowns before the King of Kings and invite Him to search your heart—removing any traces of Saul’s jealousy or Absalom’s pride. And if you face a Saul or Absalom in your life, trust God to shape you into the image of the greater David, Jesus.