Devotion in a divided world A series in 1 Samuel 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. David grows in wisdom (1 Samuel 27:1-12) Rest from running Joshua’s successor Serpents and doves Questions: Even when David is put in the terrible circumstance of living in exile, he still recognizes the priority of obedience to God. Why do we sometimes feel entitled to disobey God when our circumstances are bad? Does David's obedience inspire you or convict you, or a bit of both? Read Matthew 10:16-23. How was David wise as a serpent and innocent as a dove toward King Achish? David was driving out nations from the Promised Land that God decreed divine justice against. As New Testament Christians, does this mean we should drive unbelievers out of our lives? Is that a good application of this text? Why or why not? Think about your workplace, neighborhood, or another "mission field" in your life. How can you be wise as a serpent in how you live for Christ and share the Gospel without being obnoxious or unnecessarily offensive?