Signs of Growth
Studying the Rise of David
From Process to Promise
October 2, 2022 • Maceo Lewis
Do you trust God through the process? The conflict between the house of David and the house of Saul lasted for many years; During that time, it may have seemed as if God’s plan for a young shepherd boy to become king would never come to fruition. For David, trusting God turned out to be an uphill journey. Sometimes, the greatest challenge of faith is not about believing God for a promise, but about trusting Him through the process. The Lord’s outcome rarely comes as quickly or as smoothly as we expect. Nevertheless, our spiritual growth is ultimately determined by our willingness to accept God’s will, on His terms.
From Religion to Relationship
September 25, 2022 • Courtney Harkness
The Church certainly has her flaws. And, unfortunately, the evidence of that is seen in the lives of far too many. Sometimes, the pursuit of truth can drift into a default on love - and we begin to make others feel attacked, rather than loved. David’s tension with King Saul presents a perfect illustration of this dynamic, showing how empty religion can negatively affect the very people that God loves. As such, many people have experienced hurt or rejection from the Church, as if their struggle is too much for our Savior to handle. But scripture reminds us of God’s sovereign plan of redemption and the importance of extending His grace to all.
From Revenge to Forgiveness
September 18, 2022 • Courtney Harkness
It's one of the most revealing tests of human character: What do you do when you're given the opportunity to take revenge on someone who has wronged you? David was faced with such a moment, as King Saul continued to threaten his life. His response offers insight for all, particularly those who commit themselves to the way of the Lord. Seeking revenge only reveals our own lack of character, rather than simply rewarding others for theirs.
From Fear to Faith
September 11, 2022 • Courtney Harkness
So often, our obsession with comfort makes us long for relief from any and all of our unfavorable circumstances. But, sometimes, God’s protection is found in ways we least expect. We learn to trust Him, not just through His ability to rescue us, but also in His willingness to sustain us until He does. David’s life was turned upside down by the threat of Saul, and he learned to trust God the most in the seasons where he felt God the least.
From a Good Reason to a God Reason
September 4, 2022 • Courtney Harkness
Sometimes we reach a point in life where enough is enough. Maybe you’ve wasted too much time in the wrong job, or too much energy in a sour relationship, or just too much money on a bad habit... Either way, you know it’s time for a change. But often times, the tension between the status quo and the risk of moving forward can feel like fighting a giant all by itself. Such challenges provide an opportunity for spiritual growth - if we approach them with the right perspective. David carried a distinct perspective as he went to face the giant, providing an example that teaches us a very important lesson -- change rarely happens around us until we find the right reason within us.
From Freedom to Wisdom
August 28, 2022 • Courtney Harkness • 1 Samuel 17:38–40
It’s one thing to have freedom. It’s another to know what to do with it. Liberty itself can become a burden if we indulge ourselves in ways that are compromising. Young David’s zeal and courage gained him favor with the king, but he remained self-aware in the face of such access. Many people long for more, but few hold the insight and discipline to decide what is actually enough. Spiritual growth invites the ongoing challenge of discerning the difference between what is *allowed* and what is *actually necessary.*
From Insignificance to Service
August 21, 2022 • Courtney Harkness
Everybody wants to be significant. Unfortunately, too few people know that in God’s eyes, they already are. David knew he was king, even when others didn't recognize it. But instead of drawing attention to himself and demanding his own way, he chose the path that most people overlook - serving others.
From Pain to Purpose
August 14, 2022 • Courtney Harkness
Do you know what it feels like to be overlooked? It’s not quite a rejection, and it’s not exactly a misunderstanding, either. Both of those would require an initial acknowledgment of someone. On the contrary, being overlooked means that someone is left completely “unseen.” David’s story eventually lands him on the throne, but it begins by him being overlooked by his own family. For many of us, the greatest pain in our lives may come from those who are closest to us. Nevertheless, growth comes as we understand that even the deepest pain can be used for God’s greatest purpose.
Trying to Grow
August 7, 2022 • Courtney Harkness
You can take personal responsibility for your own spiritual development. Eventually, babies grow up to become adults. All things being equal, it’s really just a matter of time. They grow taller, stronger, and smarter as a natural progression. Unfortunately, spiritual growth is not quite as automatic. It's possible to remain “a babe in Christ,” even though enough time has passed to become a mature believer. This poses a serious problem in churches, because too often, the goal is more believers, at the expense of developing better believers. Nevertheless, we can take personal responsibility for our own spiritual development - if we just learn to look for the signs.