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 is protected (1 Samuel 29:1-11) A divine alibi Carbon copy kings Only God knows Questions: Why do the Philistine commanders refuse to let David and his men fight with them? How does this protect the reputation of David, regarding his future kingship? In what ways were King Saul and King Achish carbon copy kings in how they related to David? Why were neither of them able to actually understand David? How does David's experience of being misunderstood by these kings help us understand our relationship with the world around us? Look at Psalm 139:1-18. David was alone, in the sense that no other person really understood what it was like to carry his pressure, to stand in his shoes, to deal with his hardships. But God fully understood David and loved him! How does this psalm bring you confidence and free you from needing to be fully understood by people around you?