Bible Discussion 19: Courage and Action
Bible Discussion 19: Courage and Action Text: 1 Samuel 17:31-40 Purpose: To identify and engage in the responsibilities God has placed before us. Opening Question: What is the most dangerous thing you ever attempted to do? Read and Discuss: vs. 31-32 As the Philistine’s oppress Israel, Saul learns about David’s expressions of bravery toward Goliath. He approaches David to inquire about fighting Goliath. The odds are stacked against David in winning a battle against Goliath, but it’s a battle he believes he needs to fight and he believes God is on his side. 1. When you look at your life, what are the things worth fighting for? What deserves your heart, time, and money? Make a list of the top 5 people/things worth fighting for? (relationship with God, marriage to be healthy, kids to love Jesus and church, your church to be healthy, co-workers to know Jesus, use your time to serve, give your money to build the church, etc) Read and Discuss: vs. 33 Saul is unimpressed with David. David is a young boy, who has no experience in life, much less battle. Goliath has acquired a wealth of experience in battle since his youth and has had a lifetime of success. Clearly the odds are not in favor for David and there are many barriers that will keep him from winning. 2. What fears or apprehensions do you have about the responsibilities God has placed in your life? (fear of failing others, fear of not knowing what others need, fear of not being able to give what others need, fear of not being able to provide, fear of losing people, etc.) Read and Discuss: vs. 34-39 Saul, desirous of giving David every advantage, clothed him in the same kind of armor. It was believed that to wear the clothing of another was to be imbued with his essence and share his very being, these latter acts were probably calculated to enable Saul to take credit for, or at least to share in, David’s victory. David remembered an event that took place earlier in his life. A large wild animal was eating sheep, David tracked it down, struck it with his sling and rescued the sheep. The animal turned on David, he battled it and killed the animal. 3. When was a time in your life that you took a risk and experienced a positive outcome? (started a new friendship, invited someone to church, started/joined a small group, served in an area that is not your gifting, spoke the truth with love to a respected person, etc.) Read and Discuss: vs. 40 David was not use to Saul’s armor and it didn’t fit. Instead he choose weapons that he was familiar with. He picked up five smooth stones and grabbed his sling. 4. What are the ways that God has gifted you to ‘do battle’ for Him and His church? (pray for people, have wisdom to give, generosity, empathy, etc.) 5. This week what is one thing you can do, using your gifts, to become more like David (engaged) and less like Saul (passive)?
