The Bible's Big-Picture StorySample

STAGE 5: THE PLAN REJECTED. People choose a king.

This stage of the story starts with a conversation between the prophet, Samuel, and God.  God is asking “Are you sure you want to choose a person as king?”  The people of Israel are determined; they want to be like the other nations who have a king to fight their battles.  As we know, love does not insist on its own way, so God gives them Saul who looks the part as king but fails to be godly. So, God chooses David to replace him.

Like everyone, King David makes some terrible choices; however, unlike Saul, his heart longs for God, and as he spends time with Him their relationship grows—a man after God’s own heart. King Solomon followed asking for wisdom, and in return, God pours out His favour in riches and wealth on the kingdom. Jerusalem was its city, and at its heart Solomon built a lavish temple, replacing the tent tabernacle, a place to meet with God. The very names Solomon and Jerusalem embody who God is; shalom—peace, rest, wholeness. 

This was a time of flourishing where prosperity flowed, creativity soared, and worship was released with great extravagance. That outpouring of poetry, wisdom and songs continue to inspire and equip us today. As we worship, creativity is released; as we create, a place for worship is established—a divinely beautiful rhythm releasing wholeness and wellbeing.

The golden days did not last, and at the end of Solomon’s reign, the kingdom that represented the wholeness of God shattered in two: Israel and Judah. The kings that followed were a mix of good and bad. People made choices—some that honoured God and others that led back to hardship and death.  Both kingdoms are taken captive and exiled. 

Even in exile God is pursuing people in relationship, speaking hope of returning home and reminding them of His promise. Some people remain faithful to God and receive favour. This part of the story is where God most speaks about the permanent fix to restore our relationship. He is pouring courage into the hearts of the people when they need it. 

At the close of this stage, we see the favour of God given to Ezra and Nehemiah.  They receive permission and provision to return home to rebuild the city and temple.  Both are completed, there is hope for the future, and a new stage of the story is about to begin.

And then for the first time since creation, God falls silent… stillness that is alive with expectancy!

An invitation to interact with God and His life-giving Word:

Perhaps read the Bible verses again.  Be still before God, pondering those things for which you are expectant. Perhaps also in thankfulness, remember the generations before us and ask God how we can leave a legacy of blessing to the next.

Part of your interaction may look like visualising it with words, images, poetry, song, movement or quiet meditation… it’s all worship which brings us into a place of deeper intimacy with God. Enjoy!