I           Introduction

It might be good to reference 1 Samuel 23 and some of the key ideas that we learn from that chapter. Specifically how the LORD seeks to guide his people in their decision making. Having done so, you can go on to introduce 1 Samuel 24 as another chapter that focuses on that theme. Biblical principles must guide our daily practice. Even when they seem to be contradicted by circumstance. When the LORD is opening a door that is in line with his promises, we don’t look to providence to discern his will but to that which has been revealed in his Word. We do not grasp what God has not given. We trust him to bring his kingdom in his time.

II          The temptation of David

A          Explain: What is the situation of David and his men? Why do his men want him to kill Saul?

B          Explain: Why does David cut a corner from Saul’s robe? Why is David struck with grief having done so?

C          Explain: Why does David go out and speak to Saul? Why does Saul cry and ask David to protect his family?

D          Explain: How does David point us forward to Jesus Christ? What was the test/temptation that Jesus faced in the desert?

E          Explain: What was the motive of the mercy that David showed to Saul? How is the mercy that we receive in Christ different?

III         Godly decision making today

A          Apply: When are we tempted to look to circumstance as revealing God’s will rather than principle? Give examples.

B          Apply: What does it mean to leave vengeance in God’s hands? Why should we do so? How do prayers for God to bring judgement/justice free us to respond to evil with love?

C          Conclusion: The LORD’s King will be exalted. The promise made to David was fulfilled. Saul died in battle and David rose to the throne of Israel. The promise made to the Christ will be fulfilled. Jesus will come again in glory and the kingdoms of this world will be given to him (cf. Psalm 2:6-9; Hebrews 10:11-14). Let us not grasp what God has not given. Let us not use circumstances as an excuse for sin. And let us trust our LORD to bring his justice in his time even as we pray for his coming kingdom.

IV      Prayer of response

Hallowed by your name, your kingdom come, your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.

Father, we thank you that our Lord Jesus walked the path of suffering before glory. That he submitted to your will in all things and thereby secured our salvation. By the power of your Spirit, please help us to follow his example. To seek your will not in the circumstances that we see around us, but what you have revealed in your Word. May this be true especially for those of us who are currently suffering or experiencing hardships. May we know the comfort of your presence, may we be encouraged by the hope of eternal life in glory.

Help us also to pray for your justice rather than taking matters into our own hands. When we are wronged, let us not respond with sin and hate. To that end we ask that you would intervene and bring about changes in where Christians are currently being persecuted. May those who seek to destroy your church be stopped and the work of the devil destroyed. May Christians respond with love when they are hated. We ask this in Jesus’ name, Amen.