Influence of God's GlorySample

The Faith and Wisdom of David

David began his life as Jesse’s son, a shepherd boy, and ended his life as Israel’s most honored king. His life was exceptional, but not perfect. No one’s life can be. David experienced many highs and lows, but he included the Lord for both. By the end of his life, David had a relationship with the Lord that reflected all his experiences, and the consistency of God’s presence for each of those.

First and second Samuel ends with a kind of summary of the books. Included in this summary are two of David’s songs or prayers to God. Chapter 22 was probably written just after his years of exile from Saul, at the beginning of his reign as king. Chapter 23 reveals David’s last thoughts toward God. There are important lessons to be learned from comparing those chapters.

1. What is the first thing David wants to praise God for doing? What would be the first thing you would want to thank God for today? (2 Samuel 22:1–3)

2. As you look back on David’s life, what lessons do you most want to consider for your own?