1 Samuel 4:4, 11, 22

The Holy Spirit uses God’s Word to grow believers in their faith and increase their passion for Jesus. Break down the book of 1 Samuel into the “Big Picture” of the passage, then “Digging Deeper” into that section, and then move into “Living Out” the lessons that are taught in the passage in this 5-day reading plan.

This week, we will explore the book of 1 Samuel, engaging the transition of Israel from the age of judges to the age of kings. We will spend two days with each of the main characters—Samuel, Saul, and David—seeing both things to emulate and things to avoid as men of God.

Sometimes our desire to succeed or prosper makes us vulnerable to manipulation. Or worse, we manipulate others to get what we want. Sometimes we even try to manipulate God. The Bible passages in this reading plan help us guard against manipulation—either being manipulated or being the manipulators. These passages help us embrace the true prosperity God offers us instead.

David's life emphasizes obedience, worship, and prioritizing God's presence. David facilitated Israel's access to God; Jesus did the same for all nations. The call is to continually seek God, stretching beyond comfort. Jesus tore the veil for unrestricted access. It's a challenge to desire all God has. Explore the 10-day journey into Amos, Saul, David, and Acts, unveiling the significance of a simple tent in Jerusalem.