1 Samuel 31 - 2 Samuel 1

Pastor Marshall Ochs | July 30, 2023

In this message, Pastor Marshall teaches from 1 Samuel 31 and 2 Samuel 1. These chapters cover the death of Saul and David’s reaction to the news of Saul’s defeat. The story ends with David writing a lament to solidify how Saul and Jonathan should be remembered. These chapters teach us about perspective and the importance of seeking God’s view on matters.

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Read 1 Samuel 31:1-13

As you read through the Scripture in 1 & 2 Samuel this week, will you keep at the forefront of your mind, what is my perspective?

From a worldly viewpoint, Saul, the once mighty king, has met his demise. However, we miss the bigger picture if we focus on Saul as the main character. This unfolding of events didn't happen by chance. It was the fulfillment of God's declaration. When God speaks, His Word will undoubtedly come to pass, regardless of how long it takes.

When we read the Bible, we must consider the perspective from which the events unfold. From our limited viewpoint, circumstances can appear bleak and hopeless. But we must remember that we are not the main characters in God's story. He is the author and orchestrator of history, and everything unfolds according to His perfect plan.

Just as understanding perspective is crucial in reading Scripture, it is equally essential in discerning the times we live in today. Whether it is personal chaos or chaos on a bigger scale, God is working out His plan. The world may seem chaotic, and evil may appear to triumph, but we must remember that from God's perspective, everything is happening precisely as He declared. He is in control, and His redemptive plan is still unfolding.

What is currently happening in your life that you question why is it happening?

Is your perspective wholly focused on what is seen, not what is unseen?

Are you allowing things of this world to shape your perspective? Do you spend more time online or on social media than you are God’s Word? If so, your perspective is being shaped by this world. For those of us with children and grandchildren, who is discipling them? Is it Hollywood or social media, or are we as parents and grandparents prioritizing being in God’s Word, memorizing scripture, praising Jesus in our homes, and teaching them the power of prayer?

Will you allow the Holy Spirit to open your eyes to a new perspective? A perspective where God is sovereign over every single detail in our lives, where all things work together for the good of those who love Him.

Read 2 Samuel 1:1-27

Upon hearing of the deaths of Saul and Jonathan, David did not respond with bitterness or vengeance. Instead, he composed a lament with profound wisdom. David's song celebrated the best qualities of both Saul and Jonathan. Instead of focusing on Saul's past hatred towards him, he remembered their excellent and noble aspects. Take a moment to pause and sincerely consider the situation from David's perspective. Try to reflect on your own emotions if you were David. Will you allow the Holy Spirit to open your eyes to any concealed feelings of bitterness that might reside within your heart?

As Pastor Marshall posed the question today, If our lives were songs, what would the lyrics convey? Who is the main character? Are the lyrics filled with complaints, sorrow, and hurt? Or does our song exalt God above all else, declaring God's goodness, mercy, compassion, and abounding love?

We must consciously choose to sing about how God moves in our lives. Choosing gratitude and trust in difficult circumstances can transform our perspective and strengthen our faith. Amid life's trials and tragedies, may we craft a song of gratitude, confidence, and reverence for God, setting an example for others. Let our lives be a symphony of praise, acknowledging God's sovereignty and grace.

Read 2 Samuel 1-3 in preparation for next week.

1 Samuel 29-30

Pastor Marshall Ochs | July 23, 2023

In this message, Pastor Marshall teaches from 1 Samuel 29-30. These chapters close the wilderness years of David and bring all his lessons to close. After the many years of running from Saul, David reflects on the generosity of God through it all.

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1. Read 1 Samuel 29:1-11. In this passage we learn what happened to David after he spent 16 months in sin – lying and serving the king of the Philistines. The Lord was kind and generous to David by getting him out of trouble. Have you ever experienced a season of being caught up in sin and rebellion against God and yet, He was generous to you? The Lord’s kindness and generosity in the midst of our sin is a path to repentance and life. (See Romans 2:4 and Acts 11:18 for reference.) Marshall reminded us today that this is the perfect picture of Grace. This truth reminds me of Romans 5:8. “But God showed His great love for us in that while were still sinners, Christ died for us.”

2. The Lord used Achish to give David wise counsel to leave and not join the Philistines in battle. David was deceiving himself by believing in his own wisdom. One of the tools the enemy uses to get us off track and outside of the will of God is the deception of the lies we tell ourselves in order to justify our attitudes and actions. We have all fallen prey to unwise choices. When we find ourselves in these circumstances, we must seek wise counsel and take inventory of our decisions in comparison to God’s Word. Pray and ask the Lord to show you any area of your life where you are not in line with God’s will and plan.

3. Read 1 Samuel 30:1-6. When David returns home he sees the consequences of the lies and deceptions he believed. What does David do? He repents! He chooses God over himself. As a result of David’s repentance, he grew strong in the Lord. When we confront our sin, it gives us the chance to mature and grow deeper and stronger in our faith. Are you in a season of needing to confront sin in your life? Run to your Savior! Repent and experience God’s Amazing Grace!

4. Read 1 Samuel 30:7-15. We see the Lord being generous to David once again. The Lord provides a man to give David the information that he needed in order to have victory over the Amalekites. The truth we are seeing here is that without the Lord’s provision, generosity, kindness, love – His grace – we are lost! Take the time to thank Him today for His generosity and unconditional grace!

5. Read 1 Samuel 30:16-31. David conquered the Amalekites and shared the spoils with everyone. Because of the Lord’s generosity to David, he became a generous man. When you reflect on all that God has done for you, does it make you grateful? When we think about all that God has forgiven us for, should we not forgive others? Please read Marshall’s notes from today’s sermon and pay close attention to his “conclusion.” These are truths that will help shape our character. I pray we will live generously because we have known great generosity!

1 Samuel 27-28

Pastor Marshall Ochs | July 16, 2023

In this message, Pastor Marshall teaches from 1 Samuel 27-28. These chapters tell the story of David moving to Ziklag and Saul seeking advice from a witch. Both situations reveal the characters walking in sin and contrast wisdom with folly. These stories help us understand that there are deep roots and consequence to waking in obedience and waking in disobedience.

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Monday:  Read 1 Samuel 27

In 1 Samuel 27, we delve into the consequences of foolish decisions. Despite being anointed by God and having experienced His faithfulness, David chose to live with the Philistines. Some argue that it was a wise decision, but we can see the sin and compromise involved upon closer examination. David decided in his heart not to seek God's guidance. God's last word to him was to live in Judah. By aligning himself with the Philistines, David became a servant to Achish instead of his true calling as a servant of God. David's compromise started in his heart and gradually spread, affecting not only him but also his family and friends. Sin and disobedience always start in our hearts. 

How can you ensure that you remain steadfast in your trust in the Lord, even when faced with difficult circumstances?

Tuesday:  Read 1 Samuel 28:1-6

In chapter 28, the narrative shifts to Saul. Saul's path is marked by disobedience and godlessness. His disobedience and failure to trust God's plan had led to his disqualification as king. God had withdrawn His favor and stopped answering Saul's prayers. Saul's actions had dire consequences. When we turn away from God and think we can create our own paths or solutions, we will find ourselves on the path of foolishness. Let us guard our hearts and seek to align ourselves with God's Word.

Have you ever found yourself on a godless path, away from God's guidance and authority? Reflect on the statement that sin doesn't bring peace but only destruction. How does this truth resonate with you? How can you cultivate a heart that desires obedience to God's Word, knowing that it leads to true peace and joy?

Wednesday: Read 1 Samuel 28:7-14

In this chapter, we witness Saul's desperate attempt to seek guidance from the spirit realm, even though he had banned mediums. God does not forbid us from these practices because they are fake or make-believe but because they are real and extremely dangerous. Engaging in these forbidden practices opens you up to demonic deception. Demons can masquerade as angels, or the dead offering knowledge and false solutions. The risks are significant, and the consequences are dire. As followers of Christ, we are called to recognize His Lordship and submit to His authority alone. Let us avoid the forbidden paths that lead to deception, destruction, and separation from God. May we remain steadfast in our faith, trusting in the guidance of the Holy Spirit and the wisdom found in God's Word.

Have you ever been tempted to seek guidance from sources outside of God's Word? How can you reaffirm your commitment to Christ as Lord over your life?

Thursday: Read 1 Samuel 28: 15-25

Saul's desperate plea for guidance finally receives an answer, but it is not what he hoped for. Samuel's message to Saul is one of impending doom and death. The consequences of Saul's sinful choices are severe: he and his sons will die, and Israel will lose the battle against the Philistines. Saul's story is a stark reminder that sin does not bring peace; it leads to destruction. The path of the fool, characterized by disobedience and godlessness, may seem appealing in the moment, but its consequences are far-reaching and eternal. Let us take heed and examine our own lives. Are we walking in outright rebellion or, like David, choosing our own path because we don't understand God's? Instead, let us choose to walk the course of the wise, obedient to God's Word, and not rely on our own understanding but in all our ways acknowledge Him and know He will indeed direct our paths.

Do you fully grasp the consequences of sin and the importance of obedience? How can you encourage others to choose the path of obedience?

Heavenly Father, help me understand the gravity of sin and its consequences. Help me to understand that choosing my own path is sin.  Give me a heart that desires obedience to Your Word. Grant me wisdom and discernment to make choices that honor You and lead to a life of blessing. May my life be a testimony to others, encouraging them to walk in obedience as well. In Jesus' name, amen.

Friday: Read 1 Samuel 29-30

1 Samuel 25-26

Pastor Marshall Ochs | July 9, 2023

In this message, Pastor Marshall teaches from 1 Samuel 25-26. These chapters include the altercation between David and Nabal, and the final interaction between David and Saul. These chapters reveal a powerful lesson about letting go of vengeance and letting God fight your battles. The story is cast against a backdrop of wise characters and foolish characters and begs the reader to consider what path they walk.

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1. Read 1 Samuel 25:1-11. Saul hunted David for over 10 years. David lived in the wilderness during those years. Many lessons are learned while going through a wilderness experience. Can you remember a wilderness experience in your life? Are you currently enduring a wilderness experience? These times teach us how much we need the Lord and can depend on Him to deliver us. What did you learn or are you learning as a result of your time in the wilderness?

2. Marshall pointed out that we can easily depend on ourselves and become arrogant just like Nabal. Nabal was foolish to reject David’s message of peace and generosity. We can often become too self-sufficient and not embrace what God is offering us because we have our own agenda. We are not willing to take the crown off of our own heads and bend the knee to the Lord. In what ways have you been relying on your own strength and desire to do things your own way?

3. Read 1 Samuel 25:12-22. David is angered by Nabal’s answer and wants revenge. When someone hurts you or offends you, it’s easy to desire retaliation. However, we are reminded in Deuteronomy 32:35 that vengeance is the Lord’s. Marshall reminded us that revenge has no place in the heart of God’s people, and heated reactions in the moment are not the solution. Are you dealing with an injustice that has been done to you? Pray and ask the Lord to fight this battle for you and help you to react in the situation as He would have you to.

4. Read 1 Samuel 25:23-38. We see Abigail plead with David not to retaliate against her husband. She reminds David that his character is well known and to not ruin it by killing Nabal. Praise the Lord for Abigail having wisdom and reminding David to trust the Lord. Proverbs 1:20 & 8:1 speak to the importance and value of wisdom. David listens and obeys, and the Lord delivers him and destroys Nabal. We must exercise humility and not let our anger destroy our character. As believers, we are witnesses to the Lord’s presence in our lives. When we lash out in anger, we ruin our witness and others will not trust us. Is there someone in your life that you need to ask for forgiveness in how you treated them? Be humble and work towards reconciliation.

5. Read 1 Samuel 25:39-44. We see David having more than one wife. God allowed this, but it came with suffering and pain. We are not meant to go beyond God’s boundaries and when we do, we suffer from our foolishness. Is there an area of your life that where you are doing things outside of God’s will and you are suffering the consequences? Lay down your selfish desires, listen to God’s instruction and obey.

6. Read 1 Samuel 26:1-11. David learned his lesson and went on to teach that lesson to his nephew. When God brings us through and wilderness experience, we need to use those lessons to teach others in order to help keep them from the same wilderness experience. This is especially true when parents teach their children important lessons we’ve learned from our experiences.

7. Read 1 Samuel 26:12-25. David confronts Saul and Saul repents, but David doesn’t trust him. David is learning important leadership lessons. Your word means everything. People need to be able to trust what you say. Godly leaders should have wisdom and integrity. Can people trust what you say? Can they depend on you? If you have struggled to be a man or woman of your word, ask the Lord to help you become so. Spend time daily in God’s word and in prayer. Do this so that you may know Him better, allowing Him to mold your character to reflect Him more to others.

1 Samuel 23-24

Pastor Marshall Ochs | July 2, 2023

In this message, Pastor Marshall teaches from 1 Samuel 23-24. These chapters include David saving the city of Keilah from the Philistines and David confronting Saul at Engedi. These wandering years were formative for David. They shaped his character, his friends, his family, and his view of God. As we study these chapters, our hearts are formed as well.

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Monday: Read 1 Samuel 23

David inquires of God, seeking guidance and direction in the face of uncertainty. God speaks to us in various ways, sometimes through His Word, sometimes through godly counsel, and other times through thoughts inspired by the Holy Spirit. One thing we can be sure of is if we are given counsel from a place of fear, that is not from God.

What steps can we take to discern whether the counsel we receive is rooted in fear or from a place of godly wisdom?

Tuesday: Read 1 Samuel 23

This passage teaches us a valuable lesson: possessing a title does not automatically make someone a leader; their character truly matters. Despite Saul holding the title of King, he proved himself unworthy of true leadership. His self-absorption, bitterness, and delusions led him to misuse his position to punish the individual whom God had chosen as King.

Furthermore, the passage highlights the undeniable sovereignty of God over every aspect of our lives. It prompts us to reflect on our own tendencies to overlook the work that God is constantly doing around us. It is easy to attribute the minor occurrences in life to mere coincidences, disregarding the divine influence behind them. Therefore, may we set aside time today for meditation, contemplating the sovereignty of God over every intricate detail.

Wednesday: Read 1 Samuel 23

In this passage, Jonathan offers words of encouragement to David. The English Standard Version says that Jonathan helped him find strength in God. Just as Jonathan helped David find strength in the divine presence of God, we are reminded that our Creator has designed us to live in a community with other believers.

As we embark on our own journey to follow Jesus, we are called to uplift and encourage our friends. How can we encourage and strengthen those around us as they pursue their walk with Jesus Christ?

Thursday: Read 1 Samuel 23:15-29 & 24

Have you ever found yourself in a space where your heart yearns for something so deeply that you start perceiving every opportunity as a pathway to fulfill your desires? How acquainted are you with the voice of God, enabling you to distinguish His guidance from your own inclination to manipulate or manufacture outcomes? Are you prone to interpreting every sign as divine provision solely to attain what you want?

In this passage, we see Saul offer blessings from the LORD to those who revealed David's location to him. At times, our desires can be so overwhelming that they overshadow our ability to discern God's will accurately. We may become susceptible to self-deception, convincing ourselves that every opportunity or circumstance is tailor-made to grant us our heart's desires. Recognizing the voice of God requires intentional effort and a genuine relationship with Him. It involves spending time in prayer, immersing ourselves in His Word, and seeking His guidance wholeheartedly.

Friday: Read 1 Samuel 25-26

1 Samuel 21-22

Pastor Marshall Ochs | June 25, 2023

In this message, Pastor Marshall teaches from 1 Samuel 21-22. These chapters cover the early days of David running from Saul. This is a dark season in David’s life, but he learns a lot about himself and the Lord. The season is pivotal in shaping David to rule over Israel with a heart like God.

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1. Read 1 Samuel 21:1-9. David seeks help in Nob from the priest, Ahimelech as he is running from Saul. The bread was for the priests, but David requested it because he wanted God to be with him and take care of him. Bread has always been a reminder to us that God has always been with us, provided for us and continues to care for His children. We are to remember His ultimate provision for us through His son, Jesus, when we take communion. When you think of God’s presence and provision in your life, what comes to mind? Pray and take the time to thank Him for all that He has done for you, provided for you – especially through the sacrifice of His son, Jesus.

2. Read 1 Samuel 21:10-15. David asked to take Goliath’s sword because he thought he could depend on it and his reputation for his defeat of Goliath to keep him safe. God stripped David of his reputation and humbled him. In Psalm 34 we see what David learned through this. To what or to whom do you lean on for comfort, refuge or safety?

3. Read 1 Samuel 22:1-5. David is learning many lessons as he continues to seek safety and refuge. He leaves Gath, hides in Adullam and then moves on to seek help from the king in Moab. Marshall reminded us today that the people of God don’t need to depend on past successes, careers, titles, status or relationships for comfort or security. We may even live in our past spiritual experiences we’ve had as some type of comfort. We can’t live in the past! The question is, “What is God doing in your life currently?!” Are you actively pursuing a relationship with Him and following what/where He is leading you?

4. Read 1 Samuel 22:6-10. We see Saul having a pity party and an angry fit. Saul is always angry and ready to strike anyone who he sees as a threat. Do you struggle with anger? Do you desire people to fear you and walk on eggshells around you? Does intimidation give you feelings of power? Intimidation is not strength, it’s a misguided attempt to control. Parents, be careful that you are not alienating your children by making them fear you. Husbands and wives, be mindful of how you treat your spouse. Bosses at work, watch how you treat your employees. If this is something you struggle with, repent and ask the Lord to help you change your attitude!

5. Read 1 Samuel 22:11-23. Saul sentences the priesthood to death for helping David and Doeg is all too willing to carry it out. Ahimelech’s son, Abiathar escapes and reports to David. The Lord teaches David through this that if you give room for the enemy, he will exploit you every time. The massacre wasn’t David’s fault, but the enemy exploited a moment of weakness and people were hurt because of it. Marshall reminded us that we must put on the full armor of God (Eph. 6:10-17), and we must not store up and depend on provisions for the flesh (Rom. 13:14). We must address every sinful practice, or it will destroy us! Our leadership model comes from the Lord – not the world! Read Mark 10:42-45 to see the contrast between how the world uses power to lord over others, and the Lord comforts, protects and serves. In what ways is God asking you to change your daily habits and leadership style to be in right relationship with God and others?

6. Read Psalm 52. Let us trust in the Lord, His provision and instruction. Then we will be like the green olive tree, fruitful, pruned, cared for and secure. We are not alone or forgotten. We are not worthless! Christ has made us worthy! Let’s cling to Him and live out His will for us!

1 Samuel 19-20

Pastor Marshall Ochs | June 18, 2023

In this message, Pastor Marshall teaches from 1 Samuel 19-20. These chapters cover the final days of David in Saul’s court. Saul’s jealousy against David has turned to murder, and the king makes multiple plans to eliminate David. However, with each attempt of murder, Saul fails miserably because God is protecting David. This story reveals profound insights on the multitude of ways God saves His people, and foreshadows the gospel in wonderful ways.

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Monday: Read 1 Samuel 18:1-4 & 1 Samuel 19:1-7

As I've delved into 1 Samuel in my recent weeks of study, I couldn't help but be struck by the remarkable friendship between David and Jonathan. This reflection led me to ponder the friendships in my own life. What stood out to me was the foundation of their bond—unconditional and rooted in their deep commitment to God and His divine plan. Their friendship was not transactional, built on using each other for personal gain. It was a friendship that exemplified the truth that a true friend loves at all times. They shared a level of transparency that was truly remarkable.

Let us take a moment to reflect on the individuals we have chosen to surround ourselves with as friends. Do our friendships mirror the profound connection between Jonathan and David, where our commitment to God and His Kingdom forms the bedrock of our bond? Are we blessed with friendships that transcend personal agendas and self-interest, rooted instead in a shared pursuit of God's will?

As we evaluate our friendships, may we seek to foster relationships that reflect the principles of love, trust, and transparency. Let us prioritize companionships that inspire and encourage us in our spiritual journey. And may we, in turn, be faithful friends, committed to supporting and uplifting others in their pursuit of God's Kingdom.

Take this time for self-reflection, and may you discover and cultivate friendships that emulate the deep, meaningful connection found between Jonathan and David, founded on a shared commitment to God and His Kingdom.

Tuesday: Read 1 Samuel 19 and Psalm 59

Studying the events of 1 Samuel 19, we witness the resurgence of conflict as David once more engages in battle against the Philistines, emerging triumphant. However, this victory served as a catalyst for Saul's rekindled envy, hatred, and renewed attempts to take David's life. While most of us may not be facing a literal life-or-death situation, we may be confronted with circumstances that evoke immense fear. Considering this, we can draw lessons from David's unwavering focus and perspective amidst such suffering.

David's heart remained steadfast and resolute throughout his trials. Despite Saul's relentless pursuit, David firmly believed that God was his protector, strength, and fortress. We see in Psalm 59 David declared those truths! He also said, “God will go before me”! David's example teaches us the value of declaring God’s truth over every situation, reminding our souls that nothing can touch us without going through the Mighty Hand of God.

Wednesday: Read 1 Samuel 20

As we move into 1 Samuel 20, we learn more about the friendship between David and Jonathan. Let us reflect on the gospel message that resonates within their story. Jonathan's extraordinary act of selflessness, surrender, and humility in surrendering his own life serves as a powerful meditation on the essence of the gospel.

Thursday: Read 1 Samuel 20

As we witness Jonathan surrender his crown and kingdom to a better king, will you come before Jesus today and lay everything at His feet in complete surrender? Friday: Read 1 Samuel 21-22

1 Samuel 17-18

Pastor Marshall Ochs | June 11, 2023

In this message, Pastor Marshall teaches from 1 Samuel 17-18. These chapters tell the story of David and Goliath, as well as the further dismantling of Saul’s kingdom. David triumphs over Goliath, but Saul burns with jealousy. The story is about faith in God and learning to keep your eyes on the Lord, not giants in the land.

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1. Read 1 Samuel 17:1-11. In this passage we are introduced to Goliath, a Philistine giant from Gath. Goliath was 9’9” tall. Marshall pointed out that Goliath was not the only giant recorded in scripture. (For reference read 2 Samuel 21:15-22 and 1 Chronicles 20:4-8) Fallen angels had taken human wives and created a bloodline of giants. (Please see Marshall’s notes for references in Deuteronomy 2.) In Joshua 11:21-23 we read that all the Anakim were destroyed except for a few in Gaza, Ashdod and Gath – which were Philistine cities. As a result of the Israelites not fully obeying God in their earlier conquests, we see how this resulted in the existence of Goliath. Partial obedience is still disobedience! Our disobedience can lead to consequences that have lasting effects for both us and others. Have you been living in partial obedience to God and thinking that it’s good enough?

2. Read 1 Samuel 17:12-29. We see David demonstrating real faith! He wasn’t focused on Goliath’s outward appearance, but rather on how great his God is! Do we demonstrate this kind of faith when facing the “giants” in our lives? Are we intimidated by the size of our problems, or do we stand in faith and awe of how great our God is?!

3. Read 1 Samuel 17:40-51. David’s motivation for challenging Goliath was so that the whole earth would know that Yahweh is Lord and so that God’s people would remember that he doesn’t save with sword and spear. No one on the battlefield had faith! The real issue here wasn’t Goliath – it was the sin of unbelief! Are you currently dealing with the sin of unbelief? Are you struggling to trust God in your circumstances? Whatever your giants are, God is bigger!

4. This story of David and Goliath is a foreshadowing of Jesus and his triumph over death, sin and the grave! When we see Christ’s victory over death, we should have the courage to face the lesser giants in our lives. (i.e., pain, sickness, insecurity, anxiety, fear, addiction, finances, career or world politics.) List the giants you’re facing in your life and then look at Jesus! Your giants crumble before Christ!

5. Read 1 Samuel 18:6-16 & 22-30. Unlike Saul, David trusted God. No matter what Saul tried to do to David he kept his eyes fixed on God and not at the problems. Like David, we must live out our faith. Fix your eyes on Jesus! Trust Him and fully obey Him!