Sunday, June 9, 2024
Do you always do what God asks of you? Most of us are prone to following our own plans and desires, stubbornly continuing down the path, thinking the mess we’ve left in our wake will take care of itself. But unresolved problems only persist.
This week, as we continue our series, Bad Boys of the Bible, we learn this is nothing new. It's been experienced since Biblical times. David, a king of the old testament, was called a man after God’s own heart (1 Samuel 13:14, Acts 13:22). Indeed he loved God and deeply trusted him, but he also created tremendous problems for himself, ones that he let simmer rather than solve.
This is the same David who was confident God would help them win against Goliath.
1 Samuel 17:37
The Lord who rescued me from the claws of the lion and the bear will rescue me from this Philistine!”
And the same David who had an affair and attempted to hide it by murdering the woman’s husband, Uriah.
2 Samuel 11:15
The letter instructed Joab, “Station Uriah on the front lines where the battle is fiercest. Then pull back so that he will be killed.”
Getting honest about the situation was David’s first step to resolving the problem.
This week, invite God to open your eyes to unresolved problems that you need to get honest about. Set aside any distractions, close your eyes, take a few slow, deep breaths, and approach the Lord with humility. Consider recording your responses in a journal, whether digital or hard copy. It's a wonderful way to be able to look back on the adventure God has you on.
Prayer:
Father, thank you for this story of David that reminds me of your faithful love and serves as a warning to be honest regarding the problems in my life. This honesty will not only bring healing to myself but also mend any separation from you and others. Help me trust in you, Lord, and do good. Help me delight in you and place you as my center. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Series Theme Verse:
Psalm 37:3-4
3 Trust in the Lord and do good. Then you will live safely in the land and prosper. 4 Take delight in the Lord, and he will give you your heart’s desires.
Today’s post was written by Kelly Pagel, the Director of LivingItOut.
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Discussion Questions:
Icebreaker: What are you looking forward to this summer?
Why might people think unresolved problems will just go away?
Read Psalm 51:1-7 and Psalm 37:3-4. What do you learn about God and being honest with him in these verses?
Andy spoke about being honest with self, God, and others. Which area do you tend to be fairly honest in? Which area do you struggle with?
What is one way you can be more honest in the area you struggle with?