1 Samuel 30-31 details the starkly different paths of David and Saul. David recovers his family and belongings after the Amalekites burn Ziklag, ultimately sharing the spoils with his men and allies. Meanwhile, Saul dies by suicide on Mount Gilboa after a devastating loss to the Philistines, ending his reign.

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One of our Assistant Pastors, Rob Lee, shares an encouraging message from 1 John 2 titled “Are You Ready?”

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Some of the believers in Thessalonica became so preoccupied with the return of Christ that they withdrew from the daily responsibilities that should govern their lives. In so doing they began to become needy and nosey. Paul commands them that they need to take responsibility and work to provide for themselves. If not, discipline was necessary.

The post Duty, Discipline and Diligence | 2 Thessalonians 3:6-18 | Brent Smith appeared first on Riverside Calvary Chapel.

1 Samuel 28-29 highlights the stark contrast between Saul’s desperate rebellion and David’s protection by God. Fearful of the Philistines, Saul breaks his own law to consult a medium at Endor, where Samuel’s spirit predicts Saul’s death and defeat. Meanwhile, Philistine commanders distrust David, forcing him to return to Ziklag instead of fighting against Israel.

The post When Leaders Lose Their Way | 1 Samuel 28-29 | Brent Smith appeared first on Riverside Calvary Chapel.

As believers face opposition and uncertainty, God calls us to pray for the advance of His Word, trust in His faithful protection, and live with hearts directed toward His love and Christlike endurance.

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In this passage, Paul expresses gratitude for the Thessalonians, acknowledging their response to God’s truth and emphasizing the importance of standing firm in the faith. He reassures them that God’s love and grace empower believers to hold on to hope and remain steadfast even when life feels shaky.

The post Secure and Steadfast | 2 Thessalonians 2:13-17 | Brent Smith appeared first on Riverside Calvary Chapel.

In 1 Samuel 26 and 27, David spares King Saul’s life a second time, refusing to harm “the Lord’s anointed” despite having the opportunity, leading Saul to temporarily cease his pursuit. Weary, David then flees to live among the Philistines in Gath for safety, deceiving their king while secretly raiding other nations.

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This passage addresses the coming of the lawless one, the deception that will accompany his arrival, and the ultimate judgment that befalls those who reject

The post Truth, Lies and Eternal Consequences | 2 Thessalonians 2:9-12 | Brent Smith appeared first on Riverside Calvary Chapel.

Paul writes to comfort the believers in Thessalonica who had been deceived to think they were in the Day of the Lord. He comforts them by explaining the

The post The Restrainer and the Antichrist | 2 Thessalonians 2:1-8 | Brent Smith appeared first on Riverside Calvary Chapel.

You’ll remember at the end of chapter 23, Saul was hunting David and was

The post Waiting On God When You’re Wronged | 1 Samuel 24 and 25 | Brent Smith appeared first on Riverside Calvary Chapel.