The United Church of Canandaigua

In this final chapter of 1 Samuel, Saul's kingdom comes to an end. However, we do not find a tone of celebration. Instead, the posture of one of reverence and sadness. As we face a sin-soaked world, we are challenged to maintain a similar posture.

As we continue to walk through the story of David, we come to an extended narrative of David's life just prior to Saul's death. In desperation, David retreats to the Philistines. It appears that these years are dark days for David as God is scarcely mentioned by David in these verses. Even though David is in a dark place, God does not abandon him.

As we breeze through three chapters this week, we find Saul on the hunt for David. David has to wake up each morning wondering if his life will end. Yet, David trusts God. He releases his fear and anxiety and allows God to call the shots. Even when he has a chance to take Saul out (1 Samuel 24), he refuses to run ahead of God. Might we strive to heed God's voice and obey His leading.

David moves from a secure place in the palace to a wandering fugitive in a very short amount of time. While David did nothing wrong, he seems to lose everything precious to him. God uses this time in David's life; David is required to depend solely on God. We are challenged in our lives to trust God, even when it seems our world is falling apart.

After David killed Goliath, he became famous throughout the land. He, however, was far from becoming king. God has much more to do in his life before he ascended to the throne. In 1 Samuel 18, we walk with David through the time period following his victory over Goliath. He is challenged to remain humble, trusting in God to work out His purposes.

On Pentecost Sunday, we explore the pouring out of God's Spirit in Numbers 11. In the midst of complaining and disgruntled people, Moses is discouraged and ready to give up. God chooses to expand the work of the Spirit by including additional leaders in an outpouring of His Spirit. As we consider our day and time, may God pour out his Spirit on our church and community.

On Children and Youth Sunday, we consider Jesus' view of children. Jesus not only cares for children, but he uses them as an example of Kingdom posture. As we engage Mark 9:33-37 and 10:13-16, we are challenged to discover God's presence with children.

We continue to discuss the story of David and Goliath. Last week, we considered David's reliance on God as he faced Goliath. This week, we explore the battle itself. David approaches Goliath in the name of the Lord. He does not approach this challenge in his own power, but relies on God. As we consider challenges in our lives, God must become the center of our focus.

This is one of the most familiar stories in all of Scripture. David battles Goliath. Against all odds, a young boy faces an experienced and heavily resourced giant. We will cover this story the next two weeks. In the first week, we will consider David's reliance on God. David is sure that God will provide all he needs for the challenge.

While David is faithful watching his sheep, God is orchestrating His plan to bring David into the palace. In this week's story, we find David's music a key piece of God's plan. God brings David into Saul's court and uses this relationship to prepare David for the future.

It seems that the nation of Israel is heading to destruction. The elected king has been rejected by God. The prophet Samuel is wondering what is next for this people. All the while, God is working and moving on a Judean hillside. As we study 1 Samuel 15:34-16:13 together, we find that God's plan is not always the plan that we might choose. Yet, God's choice is always for the best.

As we begin a series over the life of David, we are reminded that he is described as "a man after God's own heart." We will explore the context around David's life to prepare for David's story. At the same time, we will touch on God's preference for those who authentically seek him. David's heart is one of passion and purpose. We will be challenged as we explore the story together.

Prepare a Table Before Me

Plantings of the Heart

Dealing With Loneliness

Living in the Power of the Resurrection Easter Sunday Service

Of Sheep and Goats

You've Got Talent

The Ten Virgins

The Wedding Banquet

The Workers in the Vineyard

Religious Liberty

The Importance of Skin

Water Walkers

Blessed Are the Spiritual Zeros