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. God takes no sides (1 Samuel 5:1-12) We cannot coerce God We cannot help God We cannot control God We must seek God Questions: The Philistines brought the ark into the temple of Dagon. They figured that Israel's God would serve their god. But it didn't work! What happened to Dagon, and what does it teach us? The Philistines had to help their god get up off the floor. What about our God? Does God need our help in order to be God? The Philistines decided to send the ark and Israel's God away. Instead of seeking to understand God more, they rejected Him. Do you know anyone who has rejected God based on what they think they know, but they haven't really sought to understand God more? Pray for that person.