LOVING YOUR ENEMIES

1 Samuel 31, 2 Samuel 1-3

Saul and Jonathan were killed in the battle with the Philistines, and David's reaction to the news of Saul's death is astonishing. First, he killed the Amalekite who had helped Saul end his life after being mortally wounded on the battlefield, and went into full mourning. David saw Saul, imperfect and evil as he was, like Jesus sees us.

Even though we are sinners and the enemy of God, Jesus laments for us, and does not deliver us to death like we deserve. David never took pleasure in Saul’s destruction and he never relished the challenges Saul faced him with. When it came to the conflict with Saul, David avoided every pitfall that comes naturally in the fallen man.

Even after all of this, David did not take the throne without more hardship and bloodshed, however David did not give up. He trusted in the Lord's plan through it all, even when it didn't really seem like an easy triumph.

What is the sources of the strength that David had to love his enemies?

Why did David kill the Amalekite?

What part of David's song stands out? 2 Samuel 1

How hard are we pursuing God's promises?

What are some promises that God has made to us that we tend to forget?