The United Church of Canandaigua

1 Samuel 25:1-34

After Saul's death, David assumes the throne. However, his initial kingdom is limited as Saul's family claims portions of the kingdom. David remains patient and confident that God will provide. In time, David's territory and prosperity expand to impressive size. As we transition from uncertainty to blessing, the road becomes fraught with danger. As we learn from David's life, comfort and security are breeding grounds for sin.

In this final chapter of 1 Samuel, Saul's kingdom comes to an end. However, we do not find a tone of celebration. Instead, the posture of one of reverence and sadness. As we face a sin-soaked world, we are challenged to maintain a similar posture.

As we continue to walk through the story of David, we come to an extended narrative of David's life just prior to Saul's death. In desperation, David retreats to the Philistines. It appears that these years are dark days for David as God is scarcely mentioned by David in these verses. Even though David is in a dark place, God does not abandon him.

As we breeze through three chapters this week, we find Saul on the hunt for David. David has to wake up each morning wondering if his life will end. Yet, David trusts God. He releases his fear and anxiety and allows God to call the shots. Even when he has a chance to take Saul out (1 Samuel 24), he refuses to run ahead of God. Might we strive to heed God's voice and obey His leading.

David moves from a secure place in the palace to a wandering fugitive in a very short amount of time. While David did nothing wrong, he seems to lose everything precious to him. God uses this time in David's life; David is required to depend solely on God. We are challenged in our lives to trust God, even when it seems our world is falling apart.

After David killed Goliath, he became famous throughout the land. He, however, was far from becoming king. God has much more to do in his life before he ascended to the throne. In 1 Samuel 18, we walk with David through the time period following his victory over Goliath. He is challenged to remain humble, trusting in God to work out His purposes.

On Pentecost Sunday, we explore the pouring out of God's Spirit in Numbers 11. In the midst of complaining and disgruntled people, Moses is discouraged and ready to give up. God chooses to expand the work of the Spirit by including additional leaders in an outpouring of His Spirit. As we consider our day and time, may God pour out his Spirit on our church and community.

On Children and Youth Sunday, we consider Jesus' view of children. Jesus not only cares for children, but he uses them as an example of Kingdom posture. As we engage Mark 9:33-37 and 10:13-16, we are challenged to discover God's presence with children.