Bible in a Year: I Samuel 17 - II Samuel 8

Welcome back to our Bible-in-a-year journey! This week we're covering 1 Samuel 17 through 2 Samuel 8. This is one of the most exciting week’s of reading so far, filled with intense battles, supernatural encounters, and powerful lessons from David's life. Let's dive into three major highlights from this week's readings.

Major Highlights:

1. A Spirit of Jealousy

   Early on, we see something significant happen in Saul’s life. After David defeats Goliath, jealousy begins to consume Saul. Several times Scripture mentions a harmful spirit coming upon Saul. While the Bible doesn't explicitly say whether this harmful spirit is specifically jealousy, Saul clearly becomes consumed by it, driving him to do unthinkable things—like repeatedly attempting to kill David, his faithful servant. This destructive jealousy not only ruins Saul personally but divides the nation, reminding us of the devastating consequences when jealousy takes root in our hearts.

2. David’s Cave and Wilderness Experience

   Our second highlight brings us to David's cave and wilderness experiences. David was anointed king, yet instead of instant kingship, he endured years of hardship, hiding, and running from Saul. It was about 13 years in all. These difficult moments, especially in places like the Cave of Adullam, shaped David’s character, faith, and leadership. It's a powerful reminder that God often prepares us in the hidden places, these difficult seasons before fulfilling His promises.

3. David Honoring His Enemies

   Throughout Saul’s relentless pursuit, David consistently chooses honor over vengeance. Multiple times David has opportunities to harm or even kill Saul, yet each time he refuses, declaring, "I will not lay a hand against the Lord’s anointed." David teaches us that honoring God and people around includes respecting authority—even when the authority seems undeserving. This powerful example of honor shows us the importance of honoring not only God, but those around us and blessing and protection God had over David because of his honor.

Key Themes to Pay Attention To:

1. The Battle Belongs to the Lord

   Reading this week we will see how David constantly seeks God’s guidance before engaging in battle. He understood a simple yet profound truth: victory belongs to God, not our strength or strategy. How often do we rely on our own wisdom without seeking God first? Like David, let’s learn to pause, pray, and follow God's direction, trusting that He will fight our battles. When it comes to I Samuel 30, we will read that “David strengthened himself in the Lord his God.” How did he do this? He did what he had always done, sought God’s presence and inquired of instructions on what to do. This is so often overlooked, but is the greatest strategy you can have when you are weak.

2. Our Mission Continues

   Have you ever felt so overwhelmed by life’s battles that you’ve forgotten your real mission? Looking at David’s life, even while King Saul actively hunted him to take his life, David never lost sight of his true purpose—protecting God’s people and defeating Israel’s enemies. No matter how relentless the attacks, David stayed faithful and focused. Like David, our mission from God doesn’t pause just because life gets tough. Keep persevering, stay faithful, and never let distractions stop you from fulfilling what God has called you to do. The same God who was with David is with you.

3. God Bringing Restoration

   Amid chaos, God was working to restore and establish His purposes. David’s throne was secured, the Ark returned, and Israel’s enemies defeated. It teaches us that even when life seems chaotic, God is actively restoring, renewing, and accomplishing His perfect plans. Trust God’s sovereignty, knowing He works all things for good.

Supernatural Worldview Focus:

The Reality of the Supernatural Realm

Now, let's discuss a moment from 1 Samuel 28—the Witch of Endor, that will provide us some insight into the supernatural worldview we need to have when reading the Bible. Saul, desperate and spiritually lost, seeks guidance from a medium, who’s a witch, understand what we call a medium today is a witch, and this witch summons Samuel from the dead. What does this blatantly show us? There is a supernatural realm around us.

This story demonstrates that spiritual powers, both good and evil, exist. Even today, witchcraft, mediums, and spiritual deception continue. As believers, we must acknowledge this reality without fear. The Bible affirms that Jesus is greater than any spiritual power we face. However, it warns us clearly not to seek out or engage in occult practices, because doing so exposes us to spiritual danger. Instead, let’s remain aware, spiritually vigilant, and fully committed to living under Christ’s authority, knowing He holds ultimate power over all darkness.

Closing

This week's reading challenges us deeply:

• Are we allowing jealousy to control us, or are we fully surrendered to God’s plans?

• Are we trusting God even in difficult wilderness seasons?

• How are we honoring and trusting God’s authority in our lives?

• Are we aware of the spiritual warfare around us, actively choosing God’s authority over every darkness?

As you reflect, take time this week to examine your heart, seeking God’s help to grow spiritually stronger.