Living an Others-Focused Life: David's Example
Summary
In today's gathering, we explored the profound call to live an others-focused life, drawing inspiration from the story of David in 1 Samuel 23. As we navigate through life's unexpected challenges, like a pillow fight in the dark, we often find ourselves tempted to turn inward, focusing solely on our own needs. However, the call of God is to look beyond ourselves and serve others, even when we are in the midst of our own battles. David, despite being pursued by King Saul, chose to respond to the needs of the city of Keilah, demonstrating that our circumstances should not dictate our willingness to serve.
David's story teaches us that living an others-focused life is not about having a title or position but about being transformed by God and sharing that transformation with others. When we choose to live this way, we find that people will join us in our journey, and we will witness victories that we could not achieve alone. The kingdom of God is built on the willingness to give away what God has given us, and in doing so, we create a community that supports and uplifts one another.
However, living an others-focused life comes with its costs. We may face criticism and sacrifice, as David did when the very people he helped were willing to betray him. Yet, the joy and fulfillment that come from seeing others thrive and succeed are worth the price. Our lives are not meant to be lived in isolation, seeking acceptance into existing circles, but rather to extend those circles and make room for others.
As we reflect on this message, let us commit to being a church that does not exist for itself but for the city and the world around us. Let us be a people who love, lead, and look for those who are lonely, extending the invitation to experience the love and transformation that only God can provide.
Key Takeaways:
1. Transformation Over Improvement: When we choose to follow Jesus, He doesn't just make us slightly better; He makes us brand new. This transformation is not about becoming a religious person but about being made new in Christ, wiping away the past and embracing a new identity. [06:33]
2. The Call to Serve Amidst Our Battles: Even when we are in the fight of our lives, God calls us to serve others. David was pursued by Saul, yet he chose to rescue Keilah. This teaches us that our circumstances should not hinder our willingness to serve and help others. [19:09]
3. The Joy of Community: Living an others-focused life brings people alongside us. David's willingness to serve attracted 600 men to join him, even when they were initially reluctant. Our willingness to invest in others creates a supportive community that stands with us in our journey. [22:15]
4. The Cost of Criticism and Sacrifice: Serving others may lead to criticism and sacrifice, as seen when the people of Keilah were willing to betray David. Yet, the fulfillment of seeing others succeed and thrive outweighs the cost. Our lives are meant to extend circles, not seek acceptance into existing ones. [31:29]
5. Building the Kingdom Through Generosity: Our generosity and willingness to give what God has given us build the kingdom of God. It's not about our abilities but about allowing rivers of living water to flow through us, impacting those around us and advancing God's kingdom. [44:59]
Youtube Chapters:
- [00:00] - Welcome
- [06:33] - The Power of Transformation
- [08:11] - Honoring Our Leaders
- [10:54] - Living an Others-Focused Life
- [12:22] - Unexpected Seasons
- [13:50] - The Temptation to Focus Inward
- [15:19] - David's Response to Keilah
- [17:38] - You Are the Answer to Somebody's Need
- [19:09] - Serving Amidst Our Battles
- [20:35] - The Joys of an Others-Focused Life
- [22:15] - Building Community
- [23:52] - The Cost of Criticism
- [25:17] - The Cost of Sacrifice
- [28:06] - The Best Victories
- [31:29] - Criticism and Sacrifice
- [34:16] - Invitation to Live an Others-Focused Life
- [44:59] - Generosity and Building the Kingdom
- [48:10] - Closing and Invitation to Next Steps
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
- 1 Samuel 23: The story of David responding to the needs of the city of Keilah despite being pursued by King Saul.
- 2 Corinthians 5:17: "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!"
#### Observation Questions
1. What was David's initial reaction when he heard about the plight of Keilah, and how did he seek guidance? ([15:19])
2. How did David's men initially respond to the idea of going to Keilah, and what changed their minds? ([22:15])
3. What was the reaction of the people of Keilah after David saved them, and how did this impact David? ([31:29])
#### Interpretation Questions
1. How does David's willingness to help Keilah despite his own troubles illustrate the concept of living an others-focused life? ([19:09])
2. In what ways does the story of David and Keilah challenge the idea that our circumstances should dictate our willingness to serve others? ([20:35])
3. How does the transformation described in 2 Corinthians 5:17 relate to the idea of living an others-focused life as demonstrated by David? ([06:33])
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a time when you were in a difficult situation. How did you respond to the needs of others during that time? What might you do differently now? ([19:09])
2. David's men were initially reluctant but eventually joined him. How can you encourage others to join you in serving, even when they are hesitant? ([22:15])
3. Have you ever experienced criticism or sacrifice as a result of serving others? How did you handle it, and what did you learn from the experience? ([31:29])
4. The sermon mentioned the joy of community that comes from living an others-focused life. How can you actively build and contribute to a supportive community in your church or neighborhood? ([22:15])
5. Consider the idea of extending your circle rather than seeking acceptance into existing ones. What practical steps can you take to include others in your community or social circles? ([38:52])
6. How can you apply the principle of generosity in your life, giving away what God has given you to build His kingdom? ([44:59])
7. Identify one person in your life who might be in distress or need support. What specific action can you take this week to reach out and help them? ([25:17])
Devotional
Day 1: Transformation Over Improvement
When we choose to follow Jesus, He doesn't just make us slightly better; He makes us brand new. This transformation is not about becoming a religious person but about being made new in Christ, wiping away the past and embracing a new identity. The journey of faith is not about self-improvement but about a complete renewal that God offers through His grace. This transformation is a gift that changes our perspective, our actions, and our relationships. It is a call to live out this new identity in every aspect of our lives, reflecting the love and grace we have received. [06:33]
Ephesians 4:22-24 (ESV): "To put off your old self, which belongs to your former manner of life and is corrupt through deceitful desires, and to be renewed in the spirit of your minds, and to put on the new self, created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness."
Reflection: What old habits or mindsets do you need to let go of to fully embrace your new identity in Christ today?
Day 2: The Call to Serve Amidst Our Battles
Even when we are in the fight of our lives, God calls us to serve others. David was pursued by Saul, yet he chose to rescue Keilah. This teaches us that our circumstances should not hinder our willingness to serve and help others. Serving others in the midst of our struggles is a testament to our faith and trust in God's provision. It is an opportunity to demonstrate love and compassion, even when we feel we have little to give. By focusing on the needs of others, we find strength and purpose beyond our own challenges. [19:09]
Galatians 6:9-10 (ESV): "And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up. So then, as we have opportunity, let us do good to everyone, and especially to those who are of the household of faith."
Reflection: Who is someone in your life that you can serve today, even if you feel overwhelmed by your own challenges?
Day 3: The Joy of Community
Living an others-focused life brings people alongside us. David's willingness to serve attracted 600 men to join him, even when they were initially reluctant. Our willingness to invest in others creates a supportive community that stands with us in our journey. Community is a source of strength and encouragement, allowing us to share burdens and celebrate victories together. By building relationships rooted in love and service, we create a network of support that reflects the unity and diversity of the body of Christ. [22:15]
Hebrews 10:24-25 (ESV): "And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near."
Reflection: How can you actively contribute to building a supportive community within your church or neighborhood this week?
Day 4: The Cost of Criticism and Sacrifice
Serving others may lead to criticism and sacrifice, as seen when the people of Keilah were willing to betray David. Yet, the fulfillment of seeing others succeed and thrive outweighs the cost. Our lives are meant to extend circles, not seek acceptance into existing ones. Embracing the cost of service requires courage and resilience, trusting that God sees and honors our sacrifices. It is a reminder that our ultimate reward is not in human approval but in the joy of participating in God's work of transformation and redemption. [31:29]
1 Peter 4:12-13 (ESV): "Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial when it comes upon you to test you, as though something strange were happening to you. But rejoice insofar as you share Christ's sufferings, that you may also rejoice and be glad when his glory is revealed."
Reflection: What sacrifices are you willing to make to extend your circle and include others in your life today?
Day 5: Building the Kingdom Through Generosity
Our generosity and willingness to give what God has given us build the kingdom of God. It's not about our abilities but about allowing rivers of living water to flow through us, impacting those around us and advancing God's kingdom. Generosity is a reflection of God's abundant grace, inviting us to share our resources, time, and talents for the benefit of others. By living generously, we participate in God's mission to bring hope and healing to the world, trusting that He will multiply our efforts for His glory. [44:59]
2 Corinthians 9:6-8 (ESV): "The point is this: whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that having all sufficiency in all things at all times, you may abound in every good work."
Reflection: In what specific ways can you practice generosity today, trusting God to use your gifts to build His kingdom?
Quotes
"Here's what I know, is that God came to make us new. If you're a follower of Jesus, when you chose to follow Jesus, He did not make your life marginally and incrementally better. He came to make you brand new. 2 Corinthians 5 .17 says, if anyone is in Christ, he or she is a new creation. You didn't become a religious person. You didn't become a churchgoer. You didn't become someone slightly better than you were in 2024. God's plan for you is to wipe the past and make you brand new. And so, Father, in the mighty name of Jesus, I thank you that your Spirit is here." [00:07:36] (35 seconds)
"David does what we should all do. He goes and he asks God, God, am I the answer to this need? Oh, I wish I had the 9 a .m. service in here. They were loud. They were responsive. I have heard 1030 that you are the loud bunch. Like, you are the ones, you got a little bit more sleep last night. You are the ones that came hungry and energetic for the word of God. Am I right?" [00:16:35] (22 seconds)
"Celebration church, here's the principle that we need to understand from verse two, from King, or who will be King David. David here is this, that you are not the answer to everybody's need. Oh, but you are the answer to somebody's need. I gotta, I know you're looking at the screens over here, but I gotta look at this car dealership section right over here. I've got some Corvettes. I've got Corvettes selling over here. I gotta look at this section right over here. Those bay doors are so awesome when you rock up and you're like, come on, somebody. Like, how many are thankful that we turned this place from a car dealership into a house of God? Come on, somebody. Let me talk to the dealership church over here and just say, you are not the answer to everybody's need, but everybody's sitting in the room right now. You are the answer to somebody's need. This is how the kingdom of God gets built." [00:17:52] (45 seconds)
"That's why John said, Jesus said, rivers of living water are gonna flow through you. Because it's not about us. It's not about our goodness. No, we all show up messed up. We're all in process. But God called you to take what he gave. That's how the kingdom of God got built. That's how we're gonna continue to advance forward as a trailblazing church in the kingdom of God. And the nation is being willing to say, what God gave me yesterday, I'm gonna give away. David goes to God, understands, hey, God, am I supposed to go? I don't know, but I will listen to you." [00:19:09] (29 seconds)
"Isn't it interesting that God chooses to say to a man who is in the fight of his life, go rescue somebody else. Oh, you're not ready for this celebration, church. What do you do when you're already busy, but God says, go? What do you do when you're like, I don't have enough money in the bank account, but God says, give? Oh, pastor, I want to. Like, I love what God's doing. I love how God's just been working in my family, my love. I see my kids growing, but now it's just not really a good season for me to serve on the team around here, because I've got young kids and you don't know how many times they woke me up in the night last night. It's like five, six times. They got me up at 1 a .m. and 2 a .m., and then another one came in at 3 a .m., and then my 14 -year -old came in at 4 a .m., and then my eight, you know, like, it's just like, it's not a good time." [00:20:10] (52 seconds)
"People will go with you. You start to live in others' focused life, other people will go with you. You ever notice that the people that have the best life, that have the most community, that have the most people surrounding them, that have all the support in the world when they go through hard things, are people who live in others' focused life? Now, watch this. In the text, we're going to find David, when he says yes to go to Keilah, 600 guys say, we'll go with you, even though all 600 of them are scared and don't want to go. Watch this. Verse 5, David's men said to him, behold, we're afraid here in Judah, like King Saul is trying to kill us while we're here. How much more if we expose ourselves and go to Keilah against the armies of the Philistines?" [00:22:15] (49 seconds)
"Four hundred people that none of you would want to spend your time with showed up. Four hundred gossipers. Four hundred people that had no money, that had spent all they had, didn't know how to manage their finances and wanted to talk to you to borrow five bucks. You know what I'm saying? Four hundred of those people showed up on David's doorstep. And you know what David didn't do? He wasn't backing next steps saying, like, you don't have your life together. I won't invest in you. He poured out his life for the 400 guys that showed up in depression, in darkness, in despair. He gave himself for them when they were in distress. They were in a low moment. So in the moment when God says, go rescue Keilah, David says, I'll go. And even though none of them want to go, all of them say, you showed up for me. I'm in. Let's go." [00:23:52] (44 seconds)
"See, I don't just want to tell us about the joys of another's focused life. Celebration Church, I want to remind you that it's about to get crazy. I want to remind you that it's about to get costly. I want to remind us that there is a cost to living in other's focused life. There's a sacrifice. Let's dig in and see what happens. Verse 7 says, Now it was told Saul that David had come to Keilah. And Saul said, God has given into my hand for he shut himself in by entering a town that has gates and bars. And Saul summoned all the people to war, not when Keilah was in danger, when David was there. Not to rescue the city because that was his assignment and calling from God. No, he wanted to use the army for his own purpose. He wanted to use the army for his own purpose. He wanted to use the army for his own purposes." [00:30:13] (36 seconds)
"David said, Oh Lord, the God of Israel, your servant has surely heard that Saul comes to Keilah to destroy the city on my account. This is, this will blow your mind. Will the men of Keilah that I had nothing to do with, my aunt didn't live here. None of the 600 guys that came with me to rescue it were doing it because their wives and children were here. Will these people that I had nothing to do with until they DM'd me and asked for help. I'm not going to do that. I'm not going to do that. Will they surrender me into his hand? And the Lord said, yeah, those people that you, you actually laid down your life for, you could have died." [00:31:29] (39 seconds)
"Actually, we live in a culture right now that will very willingly criticize you when you show up as the church. I just want you to know that there is a cost to showing up as Jesus in our culture living in others focused life is this, it's the cost of sacrifice. They gave him less than nothing. They gave him, yeah, we'll turn you over to Saul. And sometimes when you say yes to the call of God on your life, it will cost you something." [00:33:56] (55 seconds)
"Celebration family, we do not exist to throw a church party every Sunday for ourselves. We exist to fall in love with Jesus and make sure everyone in this city gets an invite to this party. To build the circle, to reach beyond ourselves. So today I want us to close our eyes. And if today you'd be willing to say, God, I want to live another focused life. Maybe it's a recommitment or today, maybe it's a brand new commitment for you to say, God, I want to live another focused life with an other's focus. Right now before God, would you just lift up your hands and say, God, here I am, send me. Here I am, send me. God, I thank you that your spirit is moving across the room today, loving us, challenging us, transforming us into the likeness of Jesus. God, I pray that we would graduate from a comfortable Christianity that says God exists to serve my needs. When we would actually show up and begin to say, God, you have put on me a calling to meet needs in the name of Jesus. And so God, I thank you. I thank you that you love, me so much that when I had no title and when I was in distress and I was in debt and I was embittered and I was complaining and I was offended that you showed up for me in the broken place and said, I'm not done with you yet. I've got a calling for you. I've got an assignment for you. I want to bless your life and raise you out of the pit and crown you with love and kindness and tender mercy. Oh, I got a calling for you, son and daughter." [00:41:20] (77 seconds)
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