Overcoming Fear Through Faith: Lessons from David
Summary
### Summary
Good morning, and welcome to this 15th Sunday after Pentecost. Today, we are blessed to have Pastor Laura Kidner-Myson as our guest preacher. She will be speaking on the timely topic of fear and anxiety. We gather today seeking God in each other, in the Word, and in the sacrament of bread and wine, the body and blood of Christ. This morning, we also shared a story with the children about David and Goliath, emphasizing David's bravery, loyalty, and faithfulness. Despite his youth and small stature, David trusted in God and defeated the giant Goliath with just a sling and a stone. This story reminds us that with faith, we can overcome even the most daunting challenges.
We also read from the first book of Samuel, recounting the detailed description of Goliath and the fear he instilled in the Israelite troops. David's refusal to wear Saul's armor and his reliance on his sling and stones highlight his trust in God rather than in human means of protection. This narrative serves as a powerful reminder that God equips us with what we need to face our giants.
In our time of prayer, we lifted up our joys and concerns, asking God to help us cope with fear and anxiety in ways that draw us closer to Him. We prayed for various individuals and situations, expressing gratitude for the support and friendship within our church family. We also celebrated the Lord's Supper, acknowledging Christ's presence among us and His invitation to all to partake in this holy meal.
As we prepare to go into the world, we are reminded of the various ways we can serve and connect with our community. From renting our parsonage to a family transitioning out of homelessness to starting a new Bible study and hosting Messy Church, there are numerous opportunities to share God's love and make a difference. We are encouraged to invite others to join us, spreading the word about the transformative power of being part of this church community.
### Key Takeaways
- Faith Over Fear: David's story teaches us that faith in God can help us overcome our greatest fears. Despite being a young boy facing a giant warrior, David trusted in God's power rather than relying on conventional means of protection. This reminds us that our faith can empower us to face and conquer our own giants. [24:43]
- God Equips the Called: David's refusal to wear Saul's armor and his reliance on his sling and stones illustrate that God equips us with what we need to fulfill His purposes. We don't need to conform to others' expectations or rely on human means; God provides us with the tools and strength necessary for the tasks He calls us to. [29:36]
- Community Support: Our time of prayer highlighted the importance of community support in dealing with fear and anxiety. Sharing our joys and concerns with one another and lifting them up in prayer fosters a sense of unity and mutual encouragement, reminding us that we are not alone in our struggles. [58:22]
- Inclusive Communion: The celebration of the Lord's Supper underscores the inclusivity of Christ's invitation. Everyone is welcome to partake in this holy meal, symbolizing the unity and acceptance found in Christ. This act of communion reminds us of Christ's sacrificial love and our call to extend that love to others. [01:05:14]
- Active Engagement: The various announcements and activities, such as the new Bible study and Messy Church, encourage us to actively engage in our church community and outreach efforts. These opportunities allow us to grow in our faith, serve others, and share the transformative power of God's love with those around us. [01:13:52]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[16:50] - Introduction of Guest Preacher
[18:30] - Children's Story: David and Goliath
[22:45] - David's Bravery and Faith
[24:43] - David's Sling and Stones
[25:36] - David's Legacy
[26:26] - Discussion on David's Courage
[27:30] - Children's Prayer
[28:43] - Reading from 1 Samuel
[30:21] - David Confronts Goliath
[31:06] - Word of the Lord
[58:22] - Joys and Concerns
[01:00:28] - Offering
[01:02:53] - Great Thanksgiving
[01:05:14] - Lord's Prayer and Communion
[01:11:58] - Announcements and Community Engagement
[01:13:52] - Upcoming Bible Study
[01:15:35] - Messy Church Event
[01:18:05] - Challenge to Invite Others
[01:21:32] - Fellowship and Final Announcements
[01:22:42] - Closing Hymn and Benediction
Study Guide
### Bible Reading
1 Samuel 17:4-11, 38-50 (NIV)
### Observation Questions
1. What were the physical characteristics and armor of Goliath as described in 1 Samuel 17:4-7?
2. How did David respond to Saul's offer of armor, and what did he choose to use instead? ([29:36])
3. What was the reaction of the Israelite troops when Goliath challenged them? ([29:36])
4. How did David defeat Goliath, and what was the outcome of their encounter? ([30:21])
### Interpretation Questions
1. Why do you think David refused to wear Saul's armor and chose to rely on his sling and stones instead? ([29:36])
2. How does David's faith in God contrast with the fear of the Israelite troops when facing Goliath? ([29:36])
3. In what ways does the story of David and Goliath illustrate the concept of "God equips the called"? ([29:36])
4. How does the act of celebrating the Lord's Supper remind us of Christ's inclusivity and sacrificial love? ([01:05:14])
### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a time when you faced a "giant" in your life. How did your faith in God help you overcome that challenge? ([24:43])
2. David trusted in God's provision rather than conventional means of protection. Are there areas in your life where you need to trust more in God's provision? ([29:36])
3. How can you actively support and encourage others in your church community who are dealing with fear and anxiety? ([58:22])
4. The Lord's Supper is a reminder of Christ's inclusivity. How can you extend this inclusivity and love to others in your daily life? ([01:05:14])
5. What steps can you take to engage more actively in your church's community and outreach efforts, such as the new Bible study or Messy Church? ([01:13:52])
6. Think of someone in your life who might benefit from being part of a supportive church community. How can you invite them to join you at church or a church event? ([01:18:05])
7. How can you apply the lesson of "faith over fear" in a current situation you are facing? ([24:43])
Devotional
Day 1: Faith Over Fear
Description:
David's story is a powerful testament to the strength of faith in overcoming fear. Despite being a young boy facing a giant warrior, David trusted in God's power rather than relying on conventional means of protection. This narrative reminds us that our faith can empower us to face and conquer our own giants. David's reliance on God rather than on Saul's armor or any other human means of protection illustrates that true courage comes from trusting in God's provision and strength. This lesson is timeless and applicable to our daily lives, where we often face challenges that seem insurmountable. [24:43]
Bible Passage:
"Then David said to the Philistine, 'You come to me with a sword and with a spear and with a javelin, but I come to you in the name of the Lord of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied.'" (1 Samuel 17:45, ESV)
Reflection:
Think of a current fear or challenge you are facing. How can you trust God more deeply in this situation, and what steps can you take today to act in faith rather than fear?
Day 2: God Equips the Called
Description:
David's refusal to wear Saul's armor and his reliance on his sling and stones illustrate that God equips us with what we need to fulfill His purposes. We don't need to conform to others' expectations or rely on human means; God provides us with the tools and strength necessary for the tasks He calls us to. This story encourages us to trust in the unique gifts and abilities God has given us, rather than feeling inadequate or pressured to be like others. It is a reminder that God's provision is always sufficient for the challenges we face when we are walking in His will. [29:36]
Bible Passage:
"But the Lord said to me, 'Do not say, ‘I am only a youth’; for to all to whom I send you, you shall go, and whatever I command you, you shall speak. Do not be afraid of them, for I am with you to deliver you, declares the Lord.'" (Jeremiah 1:7-8, ESV)
Reflection:
Reflect on a time when you felt inadequate for a task God called you to. How did God equip you in that situation? What unique gifts has God given you that you can use to serve Him today?
Day 3: Community Support
Description:
Our time of prayer highlighted the importance of community support in dealing with fear and anxiety. Sharing our joys and concerns with one another and lifting them up in prayer fosters a sense of unity and mutual encouragement, reminding us that we are not alone in our struggles. The act of coming together as a community to support one another in prayer and fellowship strengthens our faith and provides a tangible reminder of God's presence through the love and care of others. This communal support is vital in helping us navigate life's challenges and grow spiritually. [58:22]
Bible Passage:
"Bear one another's burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ." (Galatians 6:2, ESV)
Reflection:
Think of someone in your church community who may be struggling with fear or anxiety. How can you reach out to support them today, whether through prayer, a kind word, or a practical act of service?
Day 4: Inclusive Communion
Description:
The celebration of the Lord's Supper underscores the inclusivity of Christ's invitation. Everyone is welcome to partake in this holy meal, symbolizing the unity and acceptance found in Christ. This act of communion reminds us of Christ's sacrificial love and our call to extend that love to others. It is a powerful reminder that in Christ, there are no barriers or exclusions; all are invited to experience His grace and love. This inclusivity challenges us to reflect on how we can be more welcoming and loving to those around us, extending the same grace we have received. [01:05:14]
Bible Passage:
"For as often as you eat this bread and drink the cup, you proclaim the Lord's death until he comes. Whoever, therefore, eats the bread or drinks the cup of the Lord in an unworthy manner will be guilty concerning the body and blood of the Lord." (1 Corinthians 11:26-27, ESV)
Reflection:
Reflect on the inclusivity of Christ's invitation. Is there someone you know who feels excluded or unwelcome in your community? How can you extend Christ's love and invitation to them today?
Day 5: Active Engagement
Description:
The various announcements and activities, such as the new Bible study and Messy Church, encourage us to actively engage in our church community and outreach efforts. These opportunities allow us to grow in our faith, serve others, and share the transformative power of God's love with those around us. Active engagement in the life of the church not only strengthens our own faith but also helps to build a vibrant, supportive community where God's love is evident and shared. This call to action challenges us to consider how we can contribute to and participate in the life of our church and community. [01:13:52]
Bible Passage:
"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." (Hebrews 10:24-25, ESV)
Reflection:
Consider how you can actively engage in your church community this week. What specific steps can you take to participate in or support a church activity or outreach effort? How can you encourage others to join you in these efforts?
Quotes
1. "We come looking for God, looking for inspiration, figuring out how we fit, how our lives connect with what God is doing in this world, and that discovery changes everything." [18:30] (14 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "Lord God, fear and anxiety are natural parts of who we are, of who you have created us to be. We ask that you help us learn ways of coping so that the fear and anxiety serves us, brings us closer to you, closer to the life you want us to live." [58:22] (26 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "It is a time of prayer, of offering God ourselves for God to use in God's good mission. And offering our time and our giftedness, our talents, our love, our attention. That God will use it to bring about goodness in this world." [01:00:28] (18 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "As forgiven and reconciled people, let us offer ourselves and our gifts to God. So now we gather to celebrate the Lord's Supper, Holy Communion, Christ present among us in bread and wine." [01:00:28] (85 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "And now, having gathered, having heard the word proclaimed and been transformed, responding in thanksgiving, we are sent into the world to share God with others." [01:11:58] (13 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
6. "Faith opens doors wide open. Take a look. All right. All right. All right. All right. All right. It's in your bulletin, 271." [01:22:42] (54 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
7. "May peace of God be with you. Flow through you. Wash away all fear and anxiety. Take the peace of Christ into this week and pass it on to those who are hurting and anxious. You are a channel of the Spirit's love and peace." [01:22:42] (60 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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