The Story Part 10: - From Shepherd To King - Jesus Is The Shepherd/King

The Books in the Bible from 1 through to 2 Chronicles tell the story of the different Kings of Israel.

Read 1 Samuel 16-18 ​

Obviously was impressed with David's victory over . After the battle, Saul drafted David into serving at the King's court. David and Saul's son Jonathan became instant friends. Saul, however, could not cope with David's popularity, and jealousy took over his life. Finally David, in fear for his life, fled from Saul. But Saul could not let it go and he set out to hunt David down. He even ordered the slaughter of 85 priests who had given David shelter. No matter how close Saul got, David constantly evaded him. Including a daring encounter in a dark cave...

Read 1 Samuel 24 ​

David and Saul drew up a peace treaty (basically they agreed not to kill each other) and that should have been the end of it. However, Saul didn't keep to the treaty and kept trying to kill David. David even retreated to the enemy Philistine army.

Read 1 Samuel 31

David grieved over Jonathan and Saul's death. But in time, as God had promised all that time ago, David was anointed King, first over Judah, and then over all of Israel. As King, David led Israel in military victory over the , but the most impressive victory was over the Jebusites and the capturing of the fortress city of - this city became the spiritual capital for God's people. Then David oversaw and celebrated the arrival of the Ark of the Covenant to Jerusalem - the city of David.

Read 2 Samuel 6, 2 Samuel 22 ​

David believed the Ark deserved a special home befitting its grandeur and glory. David had a plan to build a great temple. A building so impressive, the world would see how great God is. David told the prophet Nathan of his plans, and Nathan's response must have stunned him.

Read 1 Chronicles 17, Psalm 59 ​

David was a commander, a shepherd, a warrior, a King, a poet, a man after God's own heart. He was a leader who put God first. He loved and followed God. And God blessed David. David was not perfect however. One day when the army was at war, the King was confronted with an enemy he didn't expect. One that would change his life forever and leave us wanting a better King to come. But that's next week....

Discussion Questions

1. Why was David chosen to be the next King of Israel?

2. What obstacles did David face to become the King he was anointed to be?

3. How was David able to face the Giant when everyone else gave in to fear?

4. Why did David spare Saul's life when he had a chance to kill him? What would you have done?

5. David had a goal (that God would be glorified). What does it mean to glorify God in our lives? How can you glorify God with your life?

Personal Reflection:

Ask God to help you look beyond the outward appearance of others.

Ask God to help you with patience as you wait on Him.

Invite God to refine you and prepare you to be used by Him in greater ways.