Sermon Recap
In this week’s message, Pastor Matt compares and contrasts the appearance and heart of Saul and King David. Growing up, you might have had an image of King David of just a small shepherd boy, but that isn’t the case. Both King Saul and King David have similar backgrounds and physical appearances. What set them apart were their hearts. Particularly, King Saul served the Lord in order to benefit himself and his kingdom. King David served the Lord because he Loved God. Secondly, King Saul followed the Lord because he was asked to, King David had a history with the Lord long before anything was asked of him. Lastly, King Saul was focused on his outward reputation, but King David was focused on protecting God’s reputation. Looking at their hearts, the difference was obvious. It is important that we look beyond the surface of a person’s life in order to determine the success of their life.
Key Scripture
Read through these passages together:
Discussion Questions
Discuss together, pushing yourself toward transparency. The more we are authentic and humble with one another, the more we can grow in Christ.
Have you ever gotten it totally wrong when it comes to judging someone’s first impression? Try and give examples of where you underestimated someone and overestimated someone? What lesson did that teach you?
Evaluate your own life. Do you limit yourself or others based on what you think they can do, ignoring what God might be able to do?
Evaluate your motives. Do you follow Jesus in order to make him and others happy, or because you truly love Him?
Evaluate the way you present yourself. Do you focus on maintaining your reputation or building your character? Do you spend more time trying to “look good” on the outside, instead of cultivating intimacy with the Lord?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, may my lips constantly bring your name praise. May my words lift you up instead of myself. I know you don’t care much if I do and say all the right things. What you care about is my heart, a heart that is devoted to you. Create in me a pure heart, humble, self-sacrificing, and full of thankfulness. Jesus, help me to see your image in the people around me. When I am quick to judge, help me to remain humble and remember that I don’t need to judge by the world’s standards. Remind me that a heart for you is more important than any status or success.
Life Application
Don’t chase what looks good to people—pursue the kind of heart that pleases God.
Don’t Forget!
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Additional Resources
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