March 26th Bible Study: 1 Samuel 21-23
Read 1 Samuel 21-23**or listen to it here:**1 Samuel 21-23 Audio
📜 Scripture of the Day
“Once again David inquired of the Lord, and the Lord answered him.” – 1 Samuel 23:4
This verse highlights David’s reliance on God’s wisdom and serves as a reminder for us to seek the Lord’s guidance in all situations.
These chapters follow David as he flees from Saul, relying completely on God’s provision and protection. He seeks refuge among priests, Philistines, and even a cave, yet through every trial, God remains with him. Saul’s paranoia grows as he unjustly orders the massacre of innocent priests, revealing the dangers of unchecked fear and jealousy. Meanwhile, David demonstrates humility and dependence on God, refusing to take matters into his own hands. Despite being hunted, he continuously seeks God’s guidance, showing that true strength comes from trust and obedience. These passages remind us that even in the wilderness seasons of life, God is our ultimate refuge and strength, guiding us through uncertainty.
📚 Overview of 1 Samuel 21-23
🔹 1 Samuel 21 – David Seeks Refuge
David flees to Nob, receives consecrated bread and Goliath’s sword from the priest Ahimelech, then escapes to Gath, pretending madness.
🔹 1 Samuel 22 – The Cave of Adullam & Saul’s Wrath
David gathers a band of followers in a cave while Saul, in blind rage, orders the slaughter of Ahimelech and the priests of Nob.
🔹 1 Samuel 23 – David Rescues Keilah & Escapes Saul
David inquires of God, rescues the city of Keilah, and continues fleeing from Saul with Jonathan’s encouragement and God’s guidance.
🔍 Trusting God in the Wilderness
David’s journey reminds us that even in hardship, God provides, protects, and directs. When life feels overwhelming, we can trust that God is our refuge. Like David, we must seek His guidance and remain faithful, knowing He is always near.
Bible Study Points and Reflections
- 📖 1 Samuel 21: Provision in Desperation
- 📌 Key Verse: 1 Samuel 21:6 – “So the priest gave him the consecrated bread, since there was no bread there except the bread of the Presence.”
- 💡 Reflection: Even in our desperation, God provides for our needs in unexpected ways.
- ❓ Application: How has God provided for you in difficult times?
- 📖 1 Samuel 22: God is Our Refuge
- 📌 Key Verse: 1 Samuel 22:2 – “All those who were in distress or in debt or discontented gathered around him, and he became their commander.”
- 💡 Reflection: David’s leadership drew the broken and rejected, reflecting how Christ welcomes all who seek refuge in Him.
- ❓ Application: Are you running to God as your refuge, or relying on your own strength?
- 📖 1 Samuel 23: Seeking God’s Guidance
- 📌 Key Verse: 1 Samuel 23:4 – “Once again David inquired of the Lord, and the Lord answered him.”
- 💡 Reflection: David sought God’s direction before making decisions, showing us the importance of relying on God’s wisdom.
- ❓ Application: Do you seek God’s guidance in decisions, both big and small?
✨ Encouragement of the Day
God is our refuge in every season. David faced fear, uncertainty, and danger, but he continually turned to God for direction and strength. No matter where we find ourselves—whether in a cave, a battle, or running from fear—God is always with us.
🙏 Call to Action
📖 Journal Prompt: What is one challenge you’re facing right now? How can you trust in God’s provision and guidance like David?
💬 Discussion: Have you ever felt like you were in a “wilderness” season? How did you experience God’s faithfulness? Share in the comments!
🙏 Prayer: Lord, in my times of trouble, help me to turn to You as my refuge and strength. Lead me in Your wisdom, and provide for my every need. Amen.
