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. An impressive young man (1 Samuel 9:1-27) Tall, yet short Prominent, yet shallow Moving forward, yet held back A worldly king for a worldly people Questions: The first thing we learn about Saul is how impressive he was - but the Bible talks about his height, not his character or integrity. What is the Bible telling us about Saul? Why does the Bible talk about Saul looking for donkeys, and failing to find them? Does Saul appear to be a good shepherd? Saul doesn't come up with the idea to ask God for help. The servant recommends this. When we don't go to God in prayer with our daily challenges, what does that say about who we are trusting to help us get through life? God gives Israel what they want: They get a king just like the other nations. Why are we so tempted to do things the world's way, instead of what God clearly tells us?