1 Samuel 24
Big Idea: God’s Way Is Rarely The Easy Way, But It’s Always The Right And Best Way
3 Declarations Of A Disciple:
1) I Will Listen To The Words Of Christ Over The Words Of The Crowd (24:1-7)
Erroneous Excuses For My Sinful Behavior:
1) Deflections
2) Rationalizations
3) Justifications
2) I Will Look To Christ For Direction Not My Circumstances (24:4-7; Psalm 54)
“Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.”
– Romans 12:2
“Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider him who endured from sinners such hostility against himself, so that you may not grow weary or fainthearted.”
– Hebrews 12:1-3
“For we do not have a high priest (Jesus) who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who in every respect has been tempted as we are, yet without sin. Let us then with confidence draw near to the throne of grace, that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.”
- Hebrews 4:15-16
3) I Will Let The Lord Be The Judge Not Me (24:8-22)
“Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer.”
- Romans 12:12
“Repay no one evil for evil, but give thought to do what is honorable in the sight of all. If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all. Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, ‘Vengeance is mine, I will reply, says the Lord.’ To the contrary, ‘if your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he is thirsty, give him something to drink; for by so doing you will heap burning coals on his head.’ Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.’”
- Romans 12:17-21