As Saul's hatred of David increased, he became more and more watchful to find an opportunity to take his life; but none of his plans against the anointed of the Lord were successful. Saul gave himself up to the control of the wicked spirit that ruled over him; while David trusted in Him who is mighty in counsel, and strong to deliver. “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom” (Proverbs 9:10), and David's prayer was continually directed to God, that he might walk before Him in a perfect way. (PP 651.1)
Reading Plan, Week 11
Patriarchs and Prophets
Chapters: 59–64
Monday: 603.1-612.4
Tuesday: 613.1-626.1
Wednesday: 627.1-636.2
Thursday: 637.1-648.3
Friday: 649.1-659.3
All page/paragraph numbers are the original page numbers and can be used with any edition of Conflict of the Ages (shown in gray on the inside margin within The Conflict Beautiful).
The following is an overview of this week’s reading. Each chapter is introduced with a short paragraph, followed by a couple of thoughts/questions for you to consider.
Chapter 59: The First King of Israel
Jealous of the surrounding nations, the Israelites ask Samuel for a king to rule over them. With God’s consent, Samuel gives the people what they want in Saul, a Benjamite, along with many warnings of what a king will entail for them as a nation. Saul proves himself worthy to be king by saving the city of Jabesh.
In what ways can you see the Spirit of God transforming you into a new person?
Where might God be trying to show you favor in your life today?
Chapter 60: The Presumption of Saul
Saul calls the men of Israel together to face the Philistine army gathered at Michmash. The army restlessly waits for Samuel to offer sacrifice. When the prophet is delayed, Saul offers the sacrifice to God’s displeasure. Jonathan and his armor bearer, under divine direction, attack the Philistine army. The Israelite army rallies and joins in the battle. Saul decrees that no man shall eat until the end of the day, which Jonathan unknowingly disobeys. The punishment is death, but the men of Israel refuse to allow Jonathan to be killed.
How are you showing God that He can trust you to carry out His will?
God sent angels to fight alongside Jonathan and his armor bearer. Where can you see God showing up in your life or the lives of others?
Chapter 61: Saul Rejected
Saul receives another chance when God sends him on a mission to eradicate the Amalekites. Instead of obeying God’s orders, Saul and his people spare Agag, the Amalekite king, and the best spoils. Samuel reproves Saul and finishes the mission given to Saul. God chooses another man to be king.
God gives chances for all to be redeemed. Have you thanked God recently for His mercy?
Where have you witnessed God turning failures into His victories?
Chapter 62: The Anointing of David
Samuel goes to the town of Bethlehem to anoint the new king chosen by God. David returns to his humble shepherding duties after meeting Samuel and waits on God’s timing.
Do you feel God calling you to something? If not, do whatever is before you to His glory because it could be your time as a shepherd like David.
In what ways can you focus on the wonder of God?
What Psalm of David’s can you claim today?
Chapter 63: David and Goliath
Saul struggles with the fact that God has rejected him as His chosen king of Israel. Only the soothing music of David temporarily relieves his distress. The Philistines have brought their champion, the giant Goliath, to face the frightened Israelite army. God uses David to defeat the giant and the Philistine army.
David used music and poetry to draw closer to God. What can you do to enrich your worship of God?
What fires you up with “zeal to preserve the honor of the living God”?
Chapter 64: David a Fugitive
Saul keeps David at his side until his jealousy drives him to try to kill David. God protects David again and again, but Saul continues in his endeavors to kill David. Fleeing to Nob, David doubts God and lies to Ahimelech, the high priest. After receiving shelter and sustenance from Ahimelech, David continues to flee the wrath of Saul. Family and disenchanted countrymen join David in hiding. Doeg, Saul’s chief herdsman, betrays David, resulting in the total destruction of Nob and Ahimelech’s family.
In what ways are you seeking God’s approval over man’s?
How are you showing your faith and trust in God?