Sermon: What More Can He Get?

Scripture Text: 1 Samuel 18:5-30

Quotes for Reflection

Richard D. Phillips, 1 Samuel, The Reformed Expository Commentary
The safest habit is for us to leave others’ opinions of us to themselves, concerning ourselves more deeply with what God thinks of our character and actions. Saul shows us what becomes true of anyone who craves personal praise: he loses the capacity for both joy and love. Not long previously, we were told that “Saul loved [David] greatly” (1 Sam. 16:21). Now, because of his own proud and insecure spirit, Saul begins to loathe and fear a young man who has been nothing but faithful in service to him.

Thomas Merton, The Seven Storey Mountain
Envy feeds on our illusions and misunderstandings about ourselves and others. When we come to understand our true identity in God, we realize that we are uniquely loved and gifted. This awareness diminishes the power of envy, as we no longer feel the need to compare ourselves with others. Instead, we can appreciate our unique path and the blessings bestowed upon us, recognizing that God’s love is abundant and tailored for each individual

Timothy Keller, “The Evil of Envy”, Gospel in Life
Envy is a complex emotion that involves more than just a desire for what others possess. It encompasses a deep sense of resentment and discontentment with one’s own situation, coupled with an inability to rejoice in others’ blessings. This emotion can eat away at one’s peace and joy, creating a cycle of bitterness and dissatisfaction.

S. G. DeGraaf, The Promise and Deliverance
Only faith makes us willing to be the lesser. Faith causes us to surrender the rights we pretend to have.

Application Questions

1. Where does envy tend to show up in your life?

2. What do we learn about envy’s effect from Saul’s experience?

3. What’s one way that the gospel can set you from the bondage of envy this week?