Devotion in a divided world A series in 1 Samuel A major theme of the Bible is the power of devotion in a divided world. When sin entered the world, it began to fragment everything. But God is on a mission to bring complete wholeness back into this world through His Son, Jesus Christ. One of the most memorable books of the Bible in the Old Testament is 1 Samuel. It’s the 9th book of the Bible, and it includes many popular historical accounts like David’s fight with Goliath. 1 Samuel is Biblical history in story-form. As you read the story, you begin to see that the key to flourishing in this world is learning how to be devoted to God in a divided world. Israel is divided (1 Samuel 4:1-22) Empty religion God’s glory in the world The power and mystery of God’s presence Sowing and reaping God is not anxious Questions: Notice how Israel approaches the ark in verse 3. They don't really seek God at all - they just intend to use God as a means to an end. How is worshiping and seeking God different from using Him? How do modern people sometimes use God rather than worship Him? The Philistines were more reverent toward the ark than even Israel, and they knew almost nothing about God (verses 7-8). God's own people were less in awe of God than outsiders! What does this teach us about the privilege and responsibility of being a Christian? The ark was captured (verse 11). Israel was in a great panic, but God was not anxious at all. How does it help you find rest to realize that the God you worship, who loves you, is never anxious or worried?