Sermon: The Coming of a Kingdom

Scripture Text: 1 Samuel 30

Quotes for Reflection

Roger Ellsworth, The Shepherd King: Learning from the Life of David
To strengthen ourselves in God means we remind ourselves of what Scripture says about God and his promises, and we bring those truths to bear on the situation. Every trial causes opposing voices to ring in the ears of the child of God. One is the voice of our circumstances, telling us that our situation is hopeless. The other is the voice of faith, telling us that our God is sufficient for the trial.

Ralph David, 1 Samuel
Here is a sobering and disturbing picture for God’s people. Are there not times when you think it cannot get any worse? And 1 Samuel 30 says, Yes, it can. There are times when you conclude that your present trouble is the last straw; you simply cannot take any more. Then comes Ziklag, the last straw after the last straw.

John O’Donohue, Anam Cara: A Book of Celtic Wisdom
When you send love out from the bountifulness of your own love, it reaches other people. This love is the deepest power of prayer. Prayer is the act and presence of sending this light from the bountifulness of your love to other people to heal, free, and bless them.

Application Questions

1. How have you experienced “the last straw after the last straw”?

2. Why does the victory of Jesus lead to the restoration of life?

3. What’s one thing you can change about your habits in order to be strengthened in the Lord?