There Are No Coincidences (1 Samuel 9:1-10:16) | Rise and Ruin | Mike Kelsey

Well, I'm excited to dive into God's Well, I'm excited to dive into God's word this morning. Uh my name is Mike word this morning. Uh my name is Mike word this morning. Uh my name is Mike Kelsey. I'm one of the pastors here and Kelsey. I'm one of the pastors here and Kelsey. I'm one of the pastors here and uh we're one church in five different uh uh we're one church in five different uh uh we're one church in five different uh locations around the DMV area. And so if locations around the DMV area. And so if locations around the DMV area. And so if you're new to our church, welcome. Uh I you're new to our church, welcome. Uh I you're new to our church, welcome. Uh I want to welcome everybody watching from want to welcome everybody watching from want to welcome everybody watching from McGomery County, Louden, Arlington, and McGomery County, Louden, Arlington, and McGomery County, Louden, Arlington, and Prince William. Uh as well as everybody Prince William. Uh as well as everybody Prince William. Uh as well as everybody uh joining us online. Uh we are going to uh joining us online. Uh we are going to uh joining us online. Uh we are going to be in 1 Samuel chapter 9. 1st be in 1 Samuel chapter 9. 1st be in 1 Samuel chapter 9. 1st [clears throat] Samuel chapter 9. You [clears throat] Samuel chapter 9. You [clears throat] Samuel chapter 9. You can meet me there. If you don't have can meet me there. If you don't have can meet me there. If you don't have your own copy of the Bible, we'll have your own copy of the Bible, we'll have your own copy of the Bible, we'll have the verses up on screen. Uh let me ask the verses up on screen. Uh let me ask the verses up on screen. Uh let me ask you this question. Have you ever felt you this question. Have you ever felt you this question. Have you ever felt like you just don't understand what's like you just don't understand what's like you just don't understand what's happening in your life? happening in your life? happening in your life? >> Once. >> Once. >> Once. >> Somebody said once. >> Somebody said once. >> Somebody said once. We've all been there uh before. Maybe We've all been there uh before. Maybe We've all been there uh before. Maybe it's uh in between jobs. it's uh in between jobs. it's uh in between jobs. Maybe it's in the midst of some pretty Maybe it's in the midst of some pretty Maybe it's in the midst of some pretty difficult difficult difficult uh tension or conflict with somebody you uh tension or conflict with somebody you uh tension or conflict with somebody you know, somebody you love. know, somebody you love. know, somebody you love. Maybe it's a physical issue that you're Maybe it's a physical issue that you're Maybe it's a physical issue that you're dealing with. Maybe it's a season of dealing with. Maybe it's a season of dealing with. Maybe it's a season of doubt. Just whatever it is, we've all doubt. Just whatever it is, we've all doubt. Just whatever it is, we've all been in those seasons or situations in been in those seasons or situations in been in those seasons or situations in life where we just don't understand life where we just don't understand life where we just don't understand what's happening. And I think the what's happening. And I think the what's happening. And I think the passage that we're going to be studying passage that we're going to be studying passage that we're going to be studying today, uh Lord willing, is going to give today, uh Lord willing, is going to give today, uh Lord willing, is going to give us some encouragement. Uh but for others us some encouragement. Uh but for others us some encouragement. Uh but for others of us it might give us a bit of uh of a of us it might give us a bit of uh of a of us it might give us a bit of uh of a challenge of a nudge uh of of challenge of a nudge uh of of challenge of a nudge uh of of conviction. And so uh we are in a series conviction. And so uh we are in a series conviction. And so uh we are in a series called Rise and Ruin. And uh we did a

called Rise and Ruin. And uh we did a called Rise and Ruin. And uh we did a miniseries in the first seven chapters miniseries in the first seven chapters miniseries in the first seven chapters of 1 Samuel and rise uh and that that of 1 Samuel and rise uh and that that of 1 Samuel and rise uh and that that that series was focusing on uh the that series was focusing on uh the that series was focusing on uh the prophet Samuel uh just the beginning of prophet Samuel uh just the beginning of prophet Samuel uh just the beginning of his life and and how God rose him up to his life and and how God rose him up to his life and and how God rose him up to be uh this prominent prophet in Israel. be uh this prominent prophet in Israel. be uh this prominent prophet in Israel. And then beginning in chapter 8 is our And then beginning in chapter 8 is our And then beginning in chapter 8 is our series that we're in now, Rise and Ruin, series that we're in now, Rise and Ruin, series that we're in now, Rise and Ruin, where we're looking at uh King Saul. And where we're looking at uh King Saul. And where we're looking at uh King Saul. And so he's the second kind of major so he's the second kind of major so he's the second kind of major character uh in the book of 1 Samuel. character uh in the book of 1 Samuel. character uh in the book of 1 Samuel. And we're looking at the rise of King And we're looking at the rise of King And we're looking at the rise of King Saul and eventually the kind of tragic Saul and eventually the kind of tragic Saul and eventually the kind of tragic ruin of King Saul uh uh in in his ruin of King Saul uh uh in in his ruin of King Saul uh uh in in his leadership. And so uh today we're going leadership. And so uh today we're going leadership. And so uh today we're going to read from chapter 9 verse 1 all the to read from chapter 9 verse 1 all the to read from chapter 9 verse 1 all the way uh to chapter 10 16. And then we're way uh to chapter 10 16. And then we're way uh to chapter 10 16. And then we're going to zoom out and think about what going to zoom out and think about what going to zoom out and think about what God might be saying to us through uh God might be saying to us through uh God might be saying to us through uh this story. So, let me give us a minute. this story. So, let me give us a minute. this story. So, let me give us a minute. Uh, because as we read through this Uh, because as we read through this Uh, because as we read through this story, this is God's word. Amen. story, this is God's word. Amen. story, this is God's word. Amen. >> Come on, y'all. This is God's word. >> Come on, y'all. This is God's word. >> Come on, y'all. This is God's word. Amen. Amen. Amen. >> And if you're new to our church, maybe >> And if you're new to our church, maybe >> And if you're new to our church, maybe you're exploring Christianity, maybe you're exploring Christianity, maybe you're exploring Christianity, maybe you're not sure if this is actually you're not sure if this is actually you're not sure if this is actually God's word or you're not even sure what God's word or you're not even sure what God's word or you're not even sure what that means. Uh, well, I hope you that means. Uh, well, I hope you that means. Uh, well, I hope you experience the wisdom uh the experience the wisdom uh the experience the wisdom uh the supernatural uh relevance of God's word supernatural uh relevance of God's word supernatural uh relevance of God's word today. And to prepare our hearts for today. And to prepare our hearts for today. And to prepare our hearts for that, I want to give you a minute that, I want to give you a minute that, I want to give you a minute between you and God, to just ask him to between you and God, to just ask him to between you and God, to just ask him to speak to you personally, to just clear speak to you personally, to just clear speak to you personally, to just clear the distractions, to settle your mind the distractions, to settle your mind the distractions, to settle your mind and your heart, uh, and to ask God to and your heart, uh, and to ask God to and your heart, uh, and to ask God to speak to you. Take a minute between you speak to you. Take a minute between you speak to you. Take a minute between you and God.

Father, we thank you for your word and Father, we thank you for your word and everything you have planned for us everything you have planned for us everything you have planned for us through your word today. And so speak to through your word today. And so speak to through your word today. And so speak to our hearts, but also work in our hearts our hearts, but also work in our hearts our hearts, but also work in our hearts by the power of your holy spirit. We by the power of your holy spirit. We by the power of your holy spirit. We pray in Jesus name. Amen. pray in Jesus name. Amen. pray in Jesus name. Amen. All right, we got a lot to do, a lot of All right, we got a lot to do, a lot of All right, we got a lot to do, a lot of work to do. So let's uh dive in. uh 1st work to do. So let's uh dive in. uh 1st work to do. So let's uh dive in. uh 1st Samuel chapter 9 verse 1 and verse 1 and Samuel chapter 9 verse 1 and verse 1 and Samuel chapter 9 verse 1 and verse 1 and 2 give us a brief bio [clears throat] of 2 give us a brief bio [clears throat] of 2 give us a brief bio [clears throat] of soon to be King Saul. 1 chapter 9 verse soon to be King Saul. 1 chapter 9 verse soon to be King Saul. 1 chapter 9 verse one it says and there was a man of one it says and there was a man of one it says and there was a man of Benjamin whose name was Kish the son of Benjamin whose name was Kish the son of Benjamin whose name was Kish the son of Abiel uh son of Zor son of Beorath son Abiel uh son of Zor son of Beorath son Abiel uh son of Zor son of Beorath son of Aaya and uh he was a Benjaminite a of Aaya and uh he was a Benjaminite a of Aaya and uh he was a Benjaminite a man of wealth and then verse two it says man of wealth and then verse two it says man of wealth and then verse two it says and he had a son whose name was Saul a and he had a son whose name was Saul a and he had a son whose name was Saul a handsome young man and there was not a handsome young man and there was not a handsome young man and there was not a man among the people of Israel more man among the people of Israel more man among the people of Israel more handsome than he from his shoulders handsome than he from his shoulders handsome than he from his shoulders upward he was taller than any of the upward he was taller than any of the upward he was taller than any of the people. Now, I'm going to be honest, people. Now, I'm going to be honest, people. Now, I'm going to be honest, this kind of low-key sounds like they're this kind of low-key sounds like they're this kind of low-key sounds like they're about to set him up on a blind date. Uh about to set him up on a blind date. Uh about to set him up on a blind date. Uh because as you read through these first because as you read through these first because as you read through these first two verses, what's the main thing the two verses, what's the main thing the two verses, what's the main thing the writer wants us to know about Saul? He's writer wants us to know about Saul? He's writer wants us to know about Saul? He's tall and he's handsome. Over and over tall and he's handsome. Over and over tall and he's handsome. Over and over again, he's handsome. And in throws in again, he's handsome. And in throws in again, he's handsome. And in throws in there that he comes from some money as there that he comes from some money as there that he comes from some money as well. Uh and you might wonder why the well. Uh and you might wonder why the well. Uh and you might wonder why the story starts this way, and we'll come story starts this way, and we'll come story starts this way, and we'll come back to that because it's important. But back to that because it's important. But back to that because it's important. But then the story takes a a very random uh then the story takes a a very random uh then the story takes a a very random uh turn. Verse three, it says, "Now the

turn. Verse three, it says, "Now the turn. Verse three, it says, "Now the donkeys of Kish, Saul's father, were donkeys of Kish, Saul's father, were donkeys of Kish, Saul's father, were lost." And so you tracking with the lost." And so you tracking with the lost." And so you tracking with the story so far, Saul has aura and he can't story so far, Saul has aura and he can't story so far, Saul has aura and he can't find his donkeys, right? Seems very find his donkeys, right? Seems very find his donkeys, right? Seems very profound and significant. Bible stories profound and significant. Bible stories profound and significant. Bible stories can be weird sometimes. And so Kiss said can be weird sometimes. And so Kiss said can be weird sometimes. And so Kiss said to Saul, his son, "Take one of the young to Saul, his son, "Take one of the young to Saul, his son, "Take one of the young men," so one of the hired servants with men," so one of the hired servants with men," so one of the hired servants with you and arise. go and look for the you and arise. go and look for the you and arise. go and look for the donkeys. This is actually one of my donkeys. This is actually one of my donkeys. This is actually one of my son's worst nightmares cuz I got to be son's worst nightmares cuz I got to be son's worst nightmares cuz I got to be honest, uh this is one of the things I honest, uh this is one of the things I honest, uh this is one of the things I enjoy most about parenting. I lose stuff enjoy most about parenting. I lose stuff enjoy most about parenting. I lose stuff and then I send them to go find it. And and then I send them to go find it. And and then I send them to go find it. And my dad did this to me all the time my dad did this to me all the time my dad did this to me all the time growing up and I've been waiting my growing up and I've been waiting my growing up and I've been waiting my whole life to pay this forward. And so whole life to pay this forward. And so whole life to pay this forward. And so Saul looks everywhere. He obeys his dad. Saul looks everywhere. He obeys his dad. Saul looks everywhere. He obeys his dad. He looks everywhere. Uh in verses four He looks everywhere. Uh in verses four He looks everywhere. Uh in verses four and five, he could not find them. But and five, he could not find them. But and five, he could not find them. But when they get to the land of Ze where when they get to the land of Ze where when they get to the land of Ze where Samuel lives, his servant has a good Samuel lives, his servant has a good Samuel lives, his servant has a good idea. So verse 6, his servant said to idea. So verse 6, his servant said to idea. So verse 6, his servant said to him, "Behold, him, "Behold, him, "Behold, there is a man of God in this city, and there is a man of God in this city, and there is a man of God in this city, and he is a man who is held in honor. All he is a man who is held in honor. All he is a man who is held in honor. All that he says comes true." It's talking that he says comes true." It's talking that he says comes true." It's talking about the prophet Samuel. And so now, about the prophet Samuel. And so now, about the prophet Samuel. And so now, let us go there. Perhaps he can tell us let us go there. Perhaps he can tell us let us go there. Perhaps he can tell us the way we should go. And you skip down the way we should go. And you skip down the way we should go. And you skip down to verse 10. And Saul said to his to verse 10. And Saul said to his to verse 10. And Saul said to his servant, "Well said, come, let us go."

servant, "Well said, come, let us go." servant, "Well said, come, let us go." And so they went to the city where the And so they went to the city where the And so they went to the city where the man of God was. And in verse 11 man of God was. And in verse 11 man of God was. And in verse 11 through13, a group of young women point through13, a group of young women point through13, a group of young women point them in the right uh direction. And then them in the right uh direction. And then them in the right uh direction. And then verse 14, it says, "So they went up to verse 14, it says, "So they went up to verse 14, it says, "So they went up to the city, and as they were entering the the city, and as they were entering the the city, and as they were entering the city, they saw Samuel coming out toward city, they saw Samuel coming out toward city, they saw Samuel coming out toward them on his way up to the high place." them on his way up to the high place." them on his way up to the high place." So Samuel just so happened, so we're So Samuel just so happened, so we're So Samuel just so happened, so we're tracking so far. Samuel just so happened tracking so far. Samuel just so happened tracking so far. Samuel just so happened uh to be in the city that day. And as uh to be in the city that day. And as uh to be in the city that day. And as they were walking in, Samuel just so they were walking in, Samuel just so they were walking in, Samuel just so happened to be walking out at the same happened to be walking out at the same happened to be walking out at the same moment. So verse 15, now the day before moment. So verse 15, now the day before moment. So verse 15, now the day before Saul came, the Lord had revealed to Saul came, the Lord had revealed to Saul came, the Lord had revealed to Samuel, verse 16, tomorrow about this Samuel, verse 16, tomorrow about this Samuel, verse 16, tomorrow about this time, time, time, I love that phrase, tomorrow about this I love that phrase, tomorrow about this I love that phrase, tomorrow about this time, at this specific time, I will send time, at this specific time, I will send time, at this specific time, I will send to you a man from the land of Benjamin, to you a man from the land of Benjamin, to you a man from the land of Benjamin, and you shall anoint him to be prince and you shall anoint him to be prince and you shall anoint him to be prince over my people Israel. He shall save my over my people Israel. He shall save my over my people Israel. He shall save my people from the hand of the Philistines.

people from the hand of the Philistines. people from the hand of the Philistines. You remember they were constantly at war You remember they were constantly at war You remember they were constantly at war with the Philistines. with the Philistines. with the Philistines. For I have seen my people because their For I have seen my people because their For I have seen my people because their cry has come to me. cry has come to me. cry has come to me. And when Samuel saw Saul, the Lord told And when Samuel saw Saul, the Lord told And when Samuel saw Saul, the Lord told him, here is the man of whom I spoke to him, here is the man of whom I spoke to him, here is the man of whom I spoke to you. He it is who shall restrain or rule you. He it is who shall restrain or rule you. He it is who shall restrain or rule over my people. And then Saul approached over my people. And then Saul approached over my people. And then Saul approached Samuel in the gate and said, tell me, Samuel in the gate and said, tell me, Samuel in the gate and said, tell me, where is the house of the seer? Now where is the house of the seer? Now where is the house of the seer? Now pause for a minute. This is Bible shade pause for a minute. This is Bible shade pause for a minute. This is Bible shade right here, okay? Because imagine right here, okay? Because imagine right here, okay? Because imagine bumping into Donald Trump at the White bumping into Donald Trump at the White bumping into Donald Trump at the White House and asking him if he knows where House and asking him if he knows where House and asking him if he knows where the president is. the president is. the president is. That's that's what's happening. This That's that's what's happening. This That's that's what's happening. This actually happens to me all the time at actually happens to me all the time at actually happens to me all the time at weddings, funerals, whatever. People weddings, funerals, whatever. People weddings, funerals, whatever. People walk up to me and say, "Hey, do you know walk up to me and say, "Hey, do you know walk up to me and say, "Hey, do you know where I can where the pastor is?" Like where I can where the pastor is?" Like where I can where the pastor is?" Like the DJ be like, "Do you know where the the DJ be like, "Do you know where the the DJ be like, "Do you know where the pastor is?" I don't get offended. I just pastor is?" I don't get offended. I just pastor is?" I don't get offended. I just I just put it in sermons because it's my I just put it in sermons because it's my I just put it in sermons because it's my passive aggressive way of dealing with passive aggressive way of dealing with passive aggressive way of dealing with it. But that's what's happening here. it. But that's what's happening here. it. But that's what's happening here. Samuel is the most well-known spiritual Samuel is the most well-known spiritual Samuel is the most well-known spiritual leader in all of Israel. And Saul has no leader in all of Israel. And Saul has no leader in all of Israel. And Saul has no idea who he is. [snorts] And so verse idea who he is. [snorts] And so verse idea who he is. [snorts] And so verse 19, Samuel answered, "Saul, I am the 19, Samuel answered, "Saul, I am the 19, Samuel answered, "Saul, I am the seer. I'm the prophet.

seer. I'm the prophet. seer. I'm the prophet. Go up before me to the high place, for Go up before me to the high place, for Go up before me to the high place, for today you shall eat with me, and in the today you shall eat with me, and in the today you shall eat with me, and in the morning I will let you go and will tell morning I will let you go and will tell morning I will let you go and will tell you all that is on your mind." As for you all that is on your mind." As for you all that is on your mind." As for your donkeys that were lost three days your donkeys that were lost three days your donkeys that were lost three days ago, remember ago, remember ago, remember Saul didn't even mention the donkeys, Saul didn't even mention the donkeys, Saul didn't even mention the donkeys, right, to Samuel. He's a true prophet. right, to Samuel. He's a true prophet. right, to Samuel. He's a true prophet. As for your donkeys that were lost three As for your donkeys that were lost three As for your donkeys that were lost three days ago, do not set your mind on them, days ago, do not set your mind on them, days ago, do not set your mind on them, for they have been found. And for whom for they have been found. And for whom for they have been found. And for whom is all that is desirable in Israel? Is is all that is desirable in Israel? Is is all that is desirable in Israel? Is it not for you and for all your father's it not for you and for all your father's it not for you and for all your father's house? That's a a tough way of of house? That's a a tough way of of house? That's a a tough way of of translating it. The NIV translation is translating it. The NIV translation is translating it. The NIV translation is easier to understand. It says, "And to easier to understand. It says, "And to easier to understand. It says, "And to whom is all the desire of Israel turned? whom is all the desire of Israel turned? whom is all the desire of Israel turned? If not to you and your whole family If not to you and your whole family If not to you and your whole family line." In other words, Saul, you're the line." In other words, Saul, you're the line." In other words, Saul, you're the king there. They've been asking for. king there. They've been asking for. king there. They've been asking for. Now, imagine Now, imagine Now, imagine you're just trying to find your dad's you're just trying to find your dad's you're just trying to find your dad's donkeys. And now all of a sudden, you're donkeys. And now all of a sudden, you're donkeys. And now all of a sudden, you're being told that the future of an entire being told that the future of an entire being told that the future of an entire nation rests on you. Saul can't even nation rests on you. Saul can't even nation rests on you. Saul can't even fathom what he's hearing. And so verse fathom what he's hearing. And so verse fathom what he's hearing. And so verse 21, Saul answered, "Am I not a 21, Saul answered, "Am I not a 21, Saul answered, "Am I not a Benjaminite Benjaminite Benjaminite from the least of the tribes of Israel?

from the least of the tribes of Israel? from the least of the tribes of Israel? And is not my clan the humblest of all And is not my clan the humblest of all And is not my clan the humblest of all the clans of the tribe of Benjamin? Why the clans of the tribe of Benjamin? Why the clans of the tribe of Benjamin? Why then have you spoken to me in this way?" then have you spoken to me in this way?" then have you spoken to me in this way?" Verse 22 to 26, Samuel hosts Saul as his Verse 22 to 26, Samuel hosts Saul as his Verse 22 to 26, Samuel hosts Saul as his guest of honor. And I love this. Verse guest of honor. And I love this. Verse guest of honor. And I love this. Verse 22, it says, "Then Samuel sook took Saul 22, it says, "Then Samuel sook took Saul 22, it says, "Then Samuel sook took Saul and his young man and and brought them and his young man and and brought them and his young man and and brought them into the hall and gave them a place at into the hall and gave them a place at into the hall and gave them a place at the head of those who had been invited the head of those who had been invited the head of those who had been invited who were about uh 30 persons." And Saul who were about uh 30 persons." And Saul who were about uh 30 persons." And Saul said to the cook, "Bring the portion I said to the cook, "Bring the portion I said to the cook, "Bring the portion I gave you of which I said to you, put it gave you of which I said to you, put it gave you of which I said to you, put it aside." So the cook took up the leg uh aside." So the cook took up the leg uh aside." So the cook took up the leg uh and and what was on it and set them and and what was on it and set them and and what was on it and set them before Saul. And Saul said, "See, what before Saul. And Saul said, "See, what before Saul. And Saul said, "See, what was kept is set before you. eat because was kept is set before you. eat because was kept is set before you. eat because it was kept for you until the hour it was kept for you until the hour it was kept for you until the hour appointed. You weren't seeking it. You appointed. You weren't seeking it. You appointed. You weren't seeking it. You don't deserve it. You weren't expecting don't deserve it. You weren't expecting don't deserve it. You weren't expecting it. But it was kept for you until the it. But it was kept for you until the it. But it was kept for you until the hour appointed that you might eat with hour appointed that you might eat with hour appointed that you might eat with the guests. And so Saul ate with Samuel the guests. And so Saul ate with Samuel the guests. And so Saul ate with Samuel that day. And when they came down from that day. And when they came down from that day. And when they came down from the high place into the city, a bed was the high place into the city, a bed was the high place into the city, a bed was spread for Saul on the roof, and he lay spread for Saul on the roof, and he lay spread for Saul on the roof, and he lay down to sleep. And then at the break of down to sleep. And then at the break of down to sleep. And then at the break of dawn, Samuel called uh to Saul on the dawn, Samuel called uh to Saul on the dawn, Samuel called uh to Saul on the roof up that I may send you on your way.

roof up that I may send you on your way. roof up that I may send you on your way. So Saul arose, and both he and Samuel So Saul arose, and both he and Samuel So Saul arose, and both he and Samuel went out into the street. As they were went out into the street. As they were went out into the street. As they were going down to the outskirts of the city, going down to the outskirts of the city, going down to the outskirts of the city, Samuel said to Saul, "Tell the servant Samuel said to Saul, "Tell the servant Samuel said to Saul, "Tell the servant to pass on before us. And when he has to pass on before us. And when he has to pass on before us. And when he has passed on, stop here yourself for a passed on, stop here yourself for a passed on, stop here yourself for a while that I may make known to you the while that I may make known to you the while that I may make known to you the word of God, so that I may reveal to you word of God, so that I may reveal to you word of God, so that I may reveal to you what God has to say." so that I might what God has to say." so that I might what God has to say." so that I might reveal to you what's been happening in reveal to you what's been happening in reveal to you what's been happening in your life. your life. your life. And then chapter 10 verse one, then And then chapter 10 verse one, then And then chapter 10 verse one, then Samuel took a flask of oil and poured it Samuel took a flask of oil and poured it Samuel took a flask of oil and poured it on his head, on Saul's head, and kissed on his head, on Saul's head, and kissed on his head, on Saul's head, and kissed him and said, "Has not the Lord anointed him and said, "Has not the Lord anointed him and said, "Has not the Lord anointed you to be prince over his people Israel? you to be prince over his people Israel? you to be prince over his people Israel? And you shall reign over the people of And you shall reign over the people of And you shall reign over the people of the Lord, and you will save them from the Lord, and you will save them from the Lord, and you will save them from the hand of their surrounding enemies. the hand of their surrounding enemies. the hand of their surrounding enemies. And this shall be the sign to you that And this shall be the sign to you that And this shall be the sign to you that the Lord has anointed you to be prince the Lord has anointed you to be prince the Lord has anointed you to be prince over his heritage. And he actually gives over his heritage. And he actually gives over his heritage. And he actually gives Saul three signs to look for signs from Saul three signs to look for signs from Saul three signs to look for signs from God to confirm that Samuel's prophetic God to confirm that Samuel's prophetic God to confirm that Samuel's prophetic words are true. And the third sign was words are true. And the third sign was words are true. And the third sign was the most important. Saul was going to the most important. Saul was going to the most important. Saul was going to come across a group of prophets. And come across a group of prophets. And come across a group of prophets. And then chapter 10 verse 6 it says then the then chapter 10 verse 6 it says then the then chapter 10 verse 6 it says then the spirit of the Lord will rush upon you spirit of the Lord will rush upon you spirit of the Lord will rush upon you and you will prophesy with them and be and you will prophesy with them and be and you will prophesy with them and be turned into another man. Something turned into another man. Something turned into another man. Something dramatic, something revolutionary, dramatic, something revolutionary, dramatic, something revolutionary, something transformational is going to something transformational is going to something transformational is going to happen to you, Saul. Now just a quick happen to you, Saul. Now just a quick happen to you, Saul. Now just a quick note here. This isn't the new birth. Uh

note here. This isn't the new birth. Uh note here. This isn't the new birth. Uh and and this isn't the permanent and and this isn't the permanent and and this isn't the permanent indwelling of the Holy Spirit that we indwelling of the Holy Spirit that we indwelling of the Holy Spirit that we experience in the new covenant. This is experience in the new covenant. This is experience in the new covenant. This is a temporary work of the Holy Spirit in a temporary work of the Holy Spirit in a temporary work of the Holy Spirit in Saul's life, empowering him for his role Saul's life, empowering him for his role Saul's life, empowering him for his role and preparing his heart for the work. and preparing his heart for the work. and preparing his heart for the work. You see this over and over again You see this over and over again You see this over and over again throughout the Old Testament where the throughout the Old Testament where the throughout the Old Testament where the Holy Spirit would come upon someone to Holy Spirit would come upon someone to Holy Spirit would come upon someone to empower them for a specific work and to empower them for a specific work and to empower them for a specific work and to prepare their heart for that work. prepare their heart for that work. prepare their heart for that work. And so Samuel tells Saul verse 7, "Now And so Samuel tells Saul verse 7, "Now And so Samuel tells Saul verse 7, "Now when these signs meet you, do what your when these signs meet you, do what your when these signs meet you, do what your hand finds to do, for God is with you." hand finds to do, for God is with you." hand finds to do, for God is with you." And just like Samuel prophesied, all And just like Samuel prophesied, all And just like Samuel prophesied, all three signs came to pass. And Samuel three signs came to pass. And Samuel three signs came to pass. And Samuel made his way back home, still trying to made his way back home, still trying to made his way back home, still trying to process everything that happened. And process everything that happened. And process everything that happened. And this section ends in chapter 10, verse this section ends in chapter 10, verse this section ends in chapter 10, verse 16. 16. 16. Now, we're going to pause there and Lord Now, we're going to pause there and Lord Now, we're going to pause there and Lord willing, we'll pick up from there next willing, we'll pick up from there next willing, we'll pick up from there next week, week, week, but I want us to zoom out for a minute but I want us to zoom out for a minute but I want us to zoom out for a minute because there was a lot happening in because there was a lot happening in because there was a lot happening in that story.

The Bible's trying to get Saul a date. The Bible's trying to get Saul a date. He's handsome and tall and wealthy. He's handsome and tall and wealthy. He's handsome and tall and wealthy. donkeys, donkeys, donkeys, this winding road, this random trip, this winding road, this random trip, this winding road, this random trip, these people that he's interacting with, these people that he's interacting with, these people that he's interacting with, Saul's confusion, Samuel's prophecy, Saul's confusion, Samuel's prophecy, Saul's confusion, Samuel's prophecy, these weird confirming signs. If you these weird confirming signs. If you these weird confirming signs. If you read through this chapter, what in the read through this chapter, what in the read through this chapter, what in the world is happening world is happening world is happening in this chapter? What is happening in this chapter? What is happening in this chapter? What is happening in Saul's life? in Saul's life? in Saul's life? I remember the question I asked us to I remember the question I asked us to I remember the question I asked us to start with. You ever wondered start with. You ever wondered start with. You ever wondered what's happening in my life? You ever what's happening in my life? You ever what's happening in my life? You ever struggle to understand what's happening struggle to understand what's happening struggle to understand what's happening in your life? The dots aren't in your life? The dots aren't in your life? The dots aren't connecting. connecting. connecting. The road that you're traveling just The road that you're traveling just The road that you're traveling just seems like it keeps hitting dead ends. seems like it keeps hitting dead ends. seems like it keeps hitting dead ends. You're just not sure what's happening. You're just not sure what's happening. You're just not sure what's happening. And I think this passage that we just And I think this passage that we just And I think this passage that we just read through reveals something to us read through reveals something to us read through reveals something to us that can help anchor us in those seasons that can help anchor us in those seasons that can help anchor us in those seasons where we're where we struggle to where we're where we struggle to where we're where we struggle to understand what's happening in our life.

understand what's happening in our life. understand what's happening in our life. This passage reveals to us a doctrine This passage reveals to us a doctrine This passage reveals to us a doctrine and you don't see it mentioned and you don't see it mentioned and you don't see it mentioned explicitly, but it's all throughout this explicitly, but it's all throughout this explicitly, but it's all throughout this passage and it's all throughout the passage and it's all throughout the passage and it's all throughout the Bible. And it's a doctrine that we call Bible. And it's a doctrine that we call Bible. And it's a doctrine that we call the providence of God. Everybody say the the providence of God. Everybody say the the providence of God. Everybody say the providence of God. providence of God. providence of God. >> Providence of God. the providence of >> Providence of God. the providence of >> Providence of God. the providence of God. Now, you may be uh a Christian. You God. Now, you may be uh a Christian. You God. Now, you may be uh a Christian. You may be familiar with the Bible. You may may be familiar with the Bible. You may may be familiar with the Bible. You may be familiar with that term. You may not be familiar with that term. You may not be familiar with that term. You may not be familiar with the Bible or that term. be familiar with the Bible or that term. be familiar with the Bible or that term. Maybe you've heard it, haven't fully Maybe you've heard it, haven't fully Maybe you've heard it, haven't fully understood uh what it means. But the understood uh what it means. But the understood uh what it means. But the providence of God is a rich and complex providence of God is a rich and complex providence of God is a rich and complex topic throughout scripture and it's topic throughout scripture and it's topic throughout scripture and it's worth studying in detail because it worth studying in detail because it worth studying in detail because it raises a lot of questions, has a bunch raises a lot of questions, has a bunch raises a lot of questions, has a bunch of nuances and just beautiful realities of nuances and just beautiful realities of nuances and just beautiful realities embedded within this doctrine we call embedded within this doctrine we call embedded within this doctrine we call the providence of God. But at a very the providence of God. But at a very the providence of God. But at a very basic level, let me try to put this in a basic level, let me try to put this in a basic level, let me try to put this in a nutshell. So this is uh admittedly nutshell. So this is uh admittedly nutshell. So this is uh admittedly simplifying this but this is just giving simplifying this but this is just giving simplifying this but this is just giving you a very basic understanding of what you a very basic understanding of what you a very basic understanding of what the Bible means when it talks about or the Bible means when it talks about or the Bible means when it talks about or describes the providence of God. The describes the providence of God. The describes the providence of God. The providence of God means no matter what providence of God means no matter what providence of God means no matter what happens, God is always in control and happens, God is always in control and happens, God is always in control and always working to accomplish his always working to accomplish his always working to accomplish his purposes, his good purposes.

purposes, his good purposes. purposes, his good purposes. >> Amen. >> Amen. >> Amen. >> Now that should be some good news to >> Now that should be some good news to >> Now that should be some good news to more than one person. All right? So I more than one person. All right? So I more than one person. All right? So I need you to repeat this after me. The need you to repeat this after me. The need you to repeat this after me. The providence of God providence of God providence of God >> The Providence of God >> The Providence of God >> The Providence of God >> means no matter what happens >> means no matter what happens >> means no matter what happens >> No matter what happens, >> No matter what happens, >> No matter what happens, >> God is always in control. >> God is always in control. >> God is always in control. >> God is always in control >> God is always in control >> God is always in control >> and always working >> and always working >> and always working >> and always working >> and always working >> and always working >> to accomplish his good purposes. >> to accomplish his good purposes. >> to accomplish his good purposes. >> to accomplish his purp. >> to accomplish his purp. >> to accomplish his purp. >> He's always in control and he's always >> He's always in control and he's always >> He's always in control and he's always working. working. working. >> He's always in control and he's always >> He's always in control and he's always >> He's always in control and he's always working. working. working. I know the situation you find yourself I know the situation you find yourself I know the situation you find yourself in, but he's always in control and he is in, but he's always in control and he is in, but he's always in control and he is always working to accomplish his good always working to accomplish his good always working to accomplish his good purposes. In other words, there is purposes. In other words, there is purposes. In other words, there is always a bigger picture that we can't always a bigger picture that we can't always a bigger picture that we can't fully comprehend in the moment. Dr. Tony fully comprehend in the moment. Dr. Tony fully comprehend in the moment. Dr. Tony Evans put it this way. He says, Evans put it this way. He says, Evans put it this way. He says, "Providence is the hand of God in the "Providence is the hand of God in the "Providence is the hand of God in the glove of history." glove of history." glove of history." the hand of God in the glove of history.

the hand of God in the glove of history. the hand of God in the glove of history. In other words, history is just In other words, history is just In other words, history is just happening. Your life is just happening. happening. Your life is just happening. happening. Your life is just happening. The circumstances around you are just The circumstances around you are just The circumstances around you are just happening. That's what you see. happening. That's what you see. happening. That's what you see. You don't see the hand of God. But the You don't see the hand of God. But the You don't see the hand of God. But the providence of God is revealed to us in providence of God is revealed to us in providence of God is revealed to us in scripture so that we can know by faith scripture so that we can know by faith scripture so that we can know by faith that behind the events happening to us that behind the events happening to us that behind the events happening to us or around us, God is actually working. or around us, God is actually working. or around us, God is actually working. And if our trust is in Jesus, he is And if our trust is in Jesus, he is And if our trust is in Jesus, he is working for us. working for us. working for us. This is the providence of God. Now This is the providence of God. Now This is the providence of God. Now there's some distortions when we try to there's some distortions when we try to there's some distortions when we try to understand how does God relate to the understand how does God relate to the understand how does God relate to the world? How does God relate to our life? world? How does God relate to our life? world? How does God relate to our life? There are some distortions on either There are some distortions on either There are some distortions on either side of the biblical truth of the side of the biblical truth of the side of the biblical truth of the providence of God. And these distortions providence of God. And these distortions providence of God. And these distortions make their way into the church. And so make their way into the church. And so make their way into the church. And so on one end you have what's called on one end you have what's called on one end you have what's called disism. Everybody say disism. Everybody say disism. Everybody say >> disism.ism. >> disism.ism. >> disism.ism. >> Dismism >> Dismism >> Dismism says God created the world but then he says God created the world but then he says God created the world but then he step back and lets it run uh on its own.

step back and lets it run uh on its own. step back and lets it run uh on its own. So God is not actively involved in the So God is not actively involved in the So God is not actively involved in the world. Now here's the problem with that world. Now here's the problem with that world. Now here's the problem with that view other than the fact that it's not view other than the fact that it's not view other than the fact that it's not biblical. Here's the existential problem biblical. Here's the existential problem biblical. Here's the existential problem with that view. It means you are on your with that view. It means you are on your with that view. It means you are on your own. You you are on your own in this world. You you are on your own in this world. Your future according to deism says that Your future according to deism says that Your future according to deism says that that that your future depends 100% that that your future depends 100% that that your future depends 100% on you. Now, some of us, right, because on you. Now, some of us, right, because on you. Now, some of us, right, because we've bought into this cultural lie, we we've bought into this cultural lie, we we've bought into this cultural lie, we take that as a badge of honor because take that as a badge of honor because take that as a badge of honor because I'm the captain of my of my own destiny, I'm the captain of my of my own destiny, I'm the captain of my of my own destiny, right? So, so when you hear that, that right? So, so when you hear that, that right? So, so when you hear that, that sounds empowering to you until you look sounds empowering to you until you look sounds empowering to you until you look back at your life. And is anybody else back at your life. And is anybody else back at your life. And is anybody else glad that God didn't always give you glad that God didn't always give you glad that God didn't always give you what you wanted? what you wanted? what you wanted? >> Amen. >> Amen. >> Amen. >> That God didn't always allow your plans >> That God didn't always allow your plans >> That God didn't always allow your plans to materialize. to materialize. to materialize. This is the reason why you're not still This is the reason why you're not still This is the reason why you're not still dating that person. We won't mention who the situation that didn't work out that the situation that didn't work out that you were convinced you were convinced you were convinced was God's will. You were convinced it was God's will. You were convinced it was God's will. You were convinced it was best. There are situations like was best. There are situations like was best. There are situations like that, desires like that, decisions like that, desires like that, decisions like that, desires like that, decisions like that that we look back on and we're that that we look back on and we're that that we look back on and we're like, I dodged the bullet.

like, I dodged the bullet. like, I dodged the bullet. >> Yes. Thank God I didn't do that. You >> Yes. Thank God I didn't do that. You >> Yes. Thank God I didn't do that. You know what that shows us? That if our know what that shows us? That if our know what that shows us? That if our future is 100% future is 100% future is 100% dependent on us, on our wisdom, on our dependent on us, on our wisdom, on our dependent on us, on our wisdom, on our ingenuity, on our decisions, ingenuity, on our decisions, ingenuity, on our decisions, that is a terrifying reality for us to that is a terrifying reality for us to that is a terrifying reality for us to live in. live in. live in. It's not the biblical reality. It's not the biblical reality. It's not the biblical reality. The other side, the other distortion on The other side, the other distortion on The other side, the other distortion on the other side of biblical truth is not the other side of biblical truth is not the other side of biblical truth is not deism, but fatalism. Everybody say deism, but fatalism. Everybody say deism, but fatalism. Everybody say fatalism. fatalism. fatalism. >> Fatalism. >> Fatalism. >> Fatalism. >> Fatalism says your choices, your >> Fatalism says your choices, your >> Fatalism says your choices, your prayers, your actions don't make a prayers, your actions don't make a prayers, your actions don't make a difference because everything has difference because everything has difference because everything has already been completely predetermined. already been completely predetermined. already been completely predetermined. Right? It's not just that God has a Right? It's not just that God has a Right? It's not just that God has a plan. It's just that every detail is so plan. It's just that every detail is so plan. It's just that every detail is so permanently fixed that human choices permanently fixed that human choices permanently fixed that human choices don't even matter. That our prayers don't even matter. That our prayers don't even matter. That our prayers don't even matter. that our actions don't even matter. that our actions don't even matter. that our actions don't even matter because what we do don't even matter because what we do don't even matter because what we do doesn't affect anything anyway. That's doesn't affect anything anyway. That's doesn't affect anything anyway. That's fatalism. And the problem with that is fatalism. And the problem with that is fatalism. And the problem with that is no matter how you slice it, at the at no matter how you slice it, at the at no matter how you slice it, at the at the bottom of that, you don't matter at the bottom of that, you don't matter at the bottom of that, you don't matter at all in this world.

You really don't matter. You really don't matter. You're you're just a a robot that is You're you're just a a robot that is You're you're just a a robot that is that is programmed. you you're just like a a wave in the you you're just like a a wave in the ocean ocean ocean at the mercy of just fate. Theism says you're alone. Fatalism says Theism says you're alone. Fatalism says you're trapped. There's nothing you can you're trapped. There's nothing you can you're trapped. There's nothing you can do. do. do. But the Bible says you're loved and led But the Bible says you're loved and led But the Bible says you're loved and led by God. by God. by God. >> You are loved and you are led by God. >> You are loved and you are led by God. >> You are loved and you are led by God. Listen to how the Proverbs uh put it. Listen to how the Proverbs uh put it. Listen to how the Proverbs uh put it. Proverbs uh 16:9 says, "The heart of man Proverbs uh 16:9 says, "The heart of man Proverbs uh 16:9 says, "The heart of man plans his way, but the Lord establishes plans his way, but the Lord establishes plans his way, but the Lord establishes his steps." Proverbs 19:21 says, "Many his steps." Proverbs 19:21 says, "Many his steps." Proverbs 19:21 says, "Many are the plans in the mind of a man, but are the plans in the mind of a man, but are the plans in the mind of a man, but it is the purpose of the Lord that will it is the purpose of the Lord that will it is the purpose of the Lord that will stand." You and I matter. Our choices stand." You and I matter. Our choices stand." You and I matter. Our choices matter. Our prayers matter. Our actions matter. Our prayers matter. Our actions matter. Our prayers matter. Our actions matter. And yet, somehow, in a way we matter. And yet, somehow, in a way we matter. And yet, somehow, in a way we can't fully comprehend, they unfold can't fully comprehend, they unfold can't fully comprehend, they unfold within the broader story of God's divine within the broader story of God's divine within the broader story of God's divine purposes.

purposes. purposes. God is always at work and he is always God is always at work and he is always God is always at work and he is always accomplishing his good purposes. Now you accomplishing his good purposes. Now you accomplishing his good purposes. Now you say that's great. Thank you for that uh say that's great. Thank you for that uh say that's great. Thank you for that uh side note that that little theological side note that that little theological side note that that little theological sidebar, but where do you see all this sidebar, but where do you see all this sidebar, but where do you see all this in the passage we just read? And how in the passage we just read? And how in the passage we just read? And how [clears throat] do I apply it to my [clears throat] do I apply it to my [clears throat] do I apply it to my life? Well, we see God's providence in life? Well, we see God's providence in life? Well, we see God's providence in three ways in this passage. three ways in this passage. three ways in this passage. God is always in control, always God is always in control, always God is always in control, always accomplishing his good purposes. Number accomplishing his good purposes. Number accomplishing his good purposes. Number one, even in unexpected circumstances. one, even in unexpected circumstances. one, even in unexpected circumstances. Even in unexpected circumstances. Look Even in unexpected circumstances. Look Even in unexpected circumstances. Look at how the way Saul's story starts. 1st at how the way Saul's story starts. 1st at how the way Saul's story starts. 1st Samuel chapter 9:3. It says, "Now the Samuel chapter 9:3. It says, "Now the Samuel chapter 9:3. It says, "Now the donkeys of Kish, Saul's father, were donkeys of Kish, Saul's father, were donkeys of Kish, Saul's father, were lost. So Kish said to his son, take one lost. So Kish said to his son, take one lost. So Kish said to his son, take one of the young men with you and arise. Go of the young men with you and arise. Go of the young men with you and arise. Go and look for the donkeys." And then we and look for the donkeys." And then we and look for the donkeys." And then we follow Saul and his servant on this follow Saul and his servant on this follow Saul and his servant on this random journey through all these random random journey through all these random random journey through all these random places and with all these random people. places and with all these random people. places and with all these random people. And as I was reflecting on the story, I And as I was reflecting on the story, I And as I was reflecting on the story, I thought to myself, why is there so much thought to myself, why is there so much thought to myself, why is there so much detail about losing some donkeys?

detail about losing some donkeys? detail about losing some donkeys? Like this right here, what we're reading Like this right here, what we're reading Like this right here, what we're reading is a major turning point in Old is a major turning point in Old is a major turning point in Old Testament history. Why in the world are Testament history. Why in the world are Testament history. Why in the world are they making such a big deal about some they making such a big deal about some they making such a big deal about some donkeys? And why would the Holy Spirit donkeys? And why would the Holy Spirit donkeys? And why would the Holy Spirit put this in the Bible? Well, I think it's to show us that God Well, I think it's to show us that God is sovereignly working even through what is sovereignly working even through what is sovereignly working even through what seemed to be random unexpected seemed to be random unexpected seemed to be random unexpected circumstances. circumstances. circumstances. Follow me. Follow me. Let me ask you a Follow me. Follow me. Let me ask you a Follow me. Follow me. Let me ask you a question. Who sent Saul to look for the question. Who sent Saul to look for the question. Who sent Saul to look for the donkeys? >> It's not a trick qu I mean, it is kind >> It's not a trick qu I mean, it is kind of a trick question. Who sent Saul to of a trick question. Who sent Saul to of a trick question. Who sent Saul to look for for the donkeys? Well, on one look for for the donkeys? Well, on one look for for the donkeys? Well, on one level, the Bible makes it clear that his level, the Bible makes it clear that his level, the Bible makes it clear that his dad sent him. That's literally what it dad sent him. That's literally what it dad sent him. That's literally what it says. His father said, "Arise, go and says. His father said, "Arise, go and says. His father said, "Arise, go and search." search." search." But did you catch what God said to the But did you catch what God said to the But did you catch what God said to the prophet Samuel? Chapter 9:15. Now the prophet Samuel? Chapter 9:15. Now the prophet Samuel? Chapter 9:15. Now the day before Samuel came, the Lord had day before Samuel came, the Lord had day before Samuel came, the Lord had revealed to Samuel, "Tomorrow about this revealed to Samuel, "Tomorrow about this revealed to Samuel, "Tomorrow about this time, this specific time, what did he time, this specific time, what did he time, this specific time, what did he say? I will send to you a man from the say? I will send to you a man from the say? I will send to you a man from the land of Benjamin."

land of Benjamin." land of Benjamin." So here's what we see. God was using an So here's what we see. God was using an So here's what we see. God was using an unexpected farming problem to change the unexpected farming problem to change the unexpected farming problem to change the course of a nation and lead Saul into course of a nation and lead Saul into course of a nation and lead Saul into his calling. Now, keep in mind Saul is not aware of Now, keep in mind Saul is not aware of any of this. This is kind of the point any of this. This is kind of the point any of this. This is kind of the point because often times, most times, you and because often times, most times, you and because often times, most times, you and I are not aware I are not aware I are not aware >> of everything that God is doing. >> of everything that God is doing. >> of everything that God is doing. >> And we have so much anxiety because we >> And we have so much anxiety because we >> And we have so much anxiety because we can't quite figure out specifically what can't quite figure out specifically what can't quite figure out specifically what God's will is or how God is specifically God's will is or how God is specifically God's will is or how God is specifically working or how this is going to work out working or how this is going to work out working or how this is going to work out or how these dots are going to connect. or how these dots are going to connect. or how these dots are going to connect. Saul is not aware of how God is working. Saul is not aware of how God is working. Saul is not aware of how God is working. But God is working. You know why? cuz But God is working. You know why? cuz But God is working. You know why? cuz he's always working he's always working he's always working >> to accomplish his good purposes. >> God is always doing so much more than we >> God is always doing so much more than we can comprehend in the moment. And here's can comprehend in the moment. And here's can comprehend in the moment. And here's why. Listen to me. Here's why this why. Listen to me. Here's why this why. Listen to me. Here's why this should be encouraging to us. The late should be encouraging to us. The late should be encouraging to us. The late Dr. Tim Keller has a famous sermon Dr. Tim Keller has a famous sermon Dr. Tim Keller has a famous sermon called Your Plans, God's Plans from called Your Plans, God's Plans from called Your Plans, God's Plans from Proverbs 16. I would strongly encourage Proverbs 16. I would strongly encourage Proverbs 16. I would strongly encourage you to look it up. It's one of my you to look it up. It's one of my you to look it up. It's one of my favorite sermons. Your plans, God's favorite sermons. Your plans, God's favorite sermons. Your plans, God's plans. And he says this. I remember plans. And he says this. I remember plans. And he says this. I remember hearing this sermon years ago and I just hearing this sermon years ago and I just hearing this sermon years ago and I just had to hurry up and write this down. He had to hurry up and write this down. He had to hurry up and write this down. He said, "God's guidance according to the said, "God's guidance according to the said, "God's guidance according to the Bible is more something God does than Bible is more something God does than Bible is more something God does than something God gives.

God's guidance according to the Bible is God's guidance according to the Bible is more something God does than something more something God does than something more something God does than something God gives." Now, we know God gives God gives." Now, we know God gives God gives." Now, we know God gives guidance. God gives wisdom. James 1, if guidance. God gives wisdom. James 1, if guidance. God gives wisdom. James 1, if anyone lacks wisdom, ask God who gives anyone lacks wisdom, ask God who gives anyone lacks wisdom, ask God who gives it generously without finding fault. it generously without finding fault. it generously without finding fault. Right? God gives wisdom. God gives Right? God gives wisdom. God gives Right? God gives wisdom. God gives guidance. But so much of our life is guidance. But so much of our life is guidance. But so much of our life is actually being led by God actually being led by God actually being led by God through the circumstances that we don't through the circumstances that we don't through the circumstances that we don't expect that are beyond our control or expect that are beyond our control or expect that are beyond our control or just seem random or even mundane or just seem random or even mundane or just seem random or even mundane or ordinary to us. Here's the point. Here's ordinary to us. Here's the point. Here's ordinary to us. Here's the point. Here's the point. You are waiting for guidance the point. You are waiting for guidance the point. You are waiting for guidance from God, but you are being guided by from God, but you are being guided by from God, but you are being guided by God. God. God. Right now, Right now, Right now, >> you are being guided by God in ways that >> you are being guided by God in ways that >> you are being guided by God in ways that you cannot fully see, in ways that you you cannot fully see, in ways that you you cannot fully see, in ways that you cannot completely understand right now. cannot completely understand right now. cannot completely understand right now. And man, I know that has meant so much And man, I know that has meant so much And man, I know that has meant so much to me. It does not answer every to me. It does not answer every to me. It does not answer every question, every philosophical question question, every philosophical question question, every philosophical question or every personal question. And when or every personal question. And when or every personal question. And when you're in the midst of a season where you're in the midst of a season where you're in the midst of a season where you don't understand what's happening in you don't understand what's happening in you don't understand what's happening in your life or you're or you're seeking your life or you're or you're seeking your life or you're or you're seeking God's wisdom to know what to do, it does God's wisdom to know what to do, it does God's wisdom to know what to do, it does not answer every question or resolve not answer every question or resolve not answer every question or resolve every tension. But God reveals to us every tension. But God reveals to us every tension. But God reveals to us this reality about his providence so this reality about his providence so this reality about his providence so that even when we can't see how he's that even when we can't see how he's that even when we can't see how he's working or understand it, we can know working or understand it, we can know working or understand it, we can know deep down in our bones that our good and

deep down in our bones that our good and deep down in our bones that our good and powerful God is always in control. And powerful God is always in control. And powerful God is always in control. And he is not just always working, but he is he is not just always working, but he is he is not just always working, but he is working right now to accomplish his good working right now to accomplish his good working right now to accomplish his good purposes in my life. Come on. Is that purposes in my life. Come on. Is that purposes in my life. Come on. Is that good news for anybody else? good news for anybody else? good news for anybody else? [applause] God is always in control, always God is always in control, always accomplishing his good purposes, even in accomplishing his good purposes, even in accomplishing his good purposes, even in unexpected circumstances. And number unexpected circumstances. And number unexpected circumstances. And number two, what we see in the passage, even two, what we see in the passage, even two, what we see in the passage, even through unlikely people. through unlikely people. through unlikely people. >> Yes, >> Yes, >> Yes, >> even through unlikely people. >> even through unlikely people. >> even through unlikely people. You see that in the way uh people in s You see that in the way uh people in s You see that in the way uh people in s uh Saul's hometown doubted him and uh Saul's hometown doubted him and uh Saul's hometown doubted him and mocked him in in verse 11. And you can mocked him in in verse 11. And you can mocked him in in verse 11. And you can go back and read that. But it's not just go back and read that. But it's not just go back and read that. But it's not just the people around Saul who doubt him. the people around Saul who doubt him. the people around Saul who doubt him. Saul doubts himself. Saul doubts himself. Saul doubts himself. He knows himself that he's not qualified He knows himself that he's not qualified He knows himself that he's not qualified to step into a role like this. Remember to step into a role like this. Remember to step into a role like this. Remember how he reacted to Samuel. 1st Samuel how he reacted to Samuel. 1st Samuel how he reacted to Samuel. 1st Samuel chapter 9 21. Saul answered, right, when chapter 9 21. Saul answered, right, when chapter 9 21. Saul answered, right, when Samuel gives him this prophetic word, Samuel gives him this prophetic word, Samuel gives him this prophetic word, right? You're you are the one.

right? You're you are the one. right? You're you are the one. Saul answered, "Am I not a Benjaminite from the least of the tribes of Israel? from the least of the tribes of Israel? And is not my clan the humless of all And is not my clan the humless of all And is not my clan the humless of all the clans of the tribe of Benjamin? Why the clans of the tribe of Benjamin? Why the clans of the tribe of Benjamin? Why then have you spoken to me this way? But Benjamin was the youngest of Jacob's But Benjamin was the youngest of Jacob's 12 sons and his tribe was the smallest. 12 sons and his tribe was the smallest. 12 sons and his tribe was the smallest. But the biggest indictment, I want to But the biggest indictment, I want to But the biggest indictment, I want to give you a little bit context so you give you a little bit context so you give you a little bit context so you understand what the weight of what what understand what the weight of what what understand what the weight of what what Saul uh is saying here. The biggest Saul uh is saying here. The biggest Saul uh is saying here. The biggest indictment against the tribe of Benjamin indictment against the tribe of Benjamin indictment against the tribe of Benjamin was in Judges chapter 20. was in Judges chapter 20. was in Judges chapter 20. And you can go back and read this when And you can go back and read this when And you can go back and read this when you get a chance, but some of the Benjam you get a chance, but some of the Benjam you get a chance, but some of the Benjam uh Benjaminite men brutally abused and uh Benjaminite men brutally abused and uh Benjaminite men brutally abused and murdered a young woman. And the story murdered a young woman. And the story murdered a young woman. And the story went viral. I mean, the story spread went viral. I mean, the story spread went viral. I mean, the story spread through the entire region, but instead through the entire region, but instead through the entire region, but instead of bringing them to justice, the of bringing them to justice, the of bringing them to justice, the Benjaminites protected the men who did Benjaminites protected the men who did Benjaminites protected the men who did it.

that they didn't prioritize and protect that they didn't prioritize and protect the vulnerable, the the one who was the vulnerable, the the one who was the vulnerable, the the one who was abused. abused. abused. They actually They actually They actually prioritized and protected the abusers. prioritized and protected the abusers. prioritized and protected the abusers. And so God raised up an army from the And so God raised up an army from the And so God raised up an army from the other tribes and decimated the tribe of other tribes and decimated the tribe of other tribes and decimated the tribe of Benjamin. And that situation tarnished Benjamin. And that situation tarnished Benjamin. And that situation tarnished their reputation for generations to their reputation for generations to their reputation for generations to come. So it makes sense now why f Saul come. So it makes sense now why f Saul come. So it makes sense now why f Saul felt so insecure about stepping into a felt so insecure about stepping into a felt so insecure about stepping into a role like this. He's from the least role like this. He's from the least role like this. He's from the least significant tribe and he's from a tribe significant tribe and he's from a tribe significant tribe and he's from a tribe that has this just historical stain. just historical stain. Everybody knows this history Everybody knows this history Everybody knows this history about Saul's tribe about his family about Saul's tribe about his family about Saul's tribe about his family line. And yet, and yet God chooses him line. And yet, and yet God chooses him line. And yet, and yet God chooses him to be king and empowers him by his to be king and empowers him by his to be king and empowers him by his spirit.

And you see this everywhere. God has a And you see this everywhere. God has a habit of choosing unlikely, illequipped habit of choosing unlikely, illequipped habit of choosing unlikely, illequipped people to accomplish his redemptive people to accomplish his redemptive people to accomplish his redemptive purposes. You think back throughout the purposes. You think back throughout the purposes. You think back throughout the Bible, Abraham and Sarah can't have Bible, Abraham and Sarah can't have Bible, Abraham and Sarah can't have kids. God says, "But I'm choosing you kids. God says, "But I'm choosing you kids. God says, "But I'm choosing you and and and I'm going to multiply your and and and I'm going to multiply your and and and I'm going to multiply your descendants and and out of your family descendants and and out of your family descendants and and out of your family line are going to come kings and nations line are going to come kings and nations line are going to come kings and nations and ultimately the Messiah." You see the and ultimately the Messiah." You see the and ultimately the Messiah." You see the same thing with Moses when he's called same thing with Moses when he's called same thing with Moses when he's called to lead God's people and he's like, "I to lead God's people and he's like, "I to lead God's people and he's like, "I can't. I'm not built like that. I'm not can't. I'm not built like that. I'm not can't. I'm not built like that. I'm not a good public speaker. I'm not a good public speaker. I'm not a good public speaker. I'm not eloquent." eloquent." eloquent." You see it in Joshua and on and on and You see it in Joshua and on and on and You see it in Joshua and on and on and on. God has a habit of choosing on. God has a habit of choosing on. God has a habit of choosing unlikely, illequipped, even insecure unlikely, illequipped, even insecure unlikely, illequipped, even insecure people to accomplish his redemptive people to accomplish his redemptive people to accomplish his redemptive purposes. And listen to me, the Bible purposes. And listen to me, the Bible purposes. And listen to me, the Bible tells us why. tells us why. tells us why. Why does God do this? Why does God do this? Why does God do this? Cuz it's actually kind of annoying to be Cuz it's actually kind of annoying to be Cuz it's actually kind of annoying to be honest. honest. honest. To constantly be put in situations To constantly be put in situations To constantly be put in situations where, you know, you're slightly above where, you know, you're slightly above where, you know, you're slightly above your head your head your head to become the person God has called you to become the person God has called you to become the person God has called you to be or to do the thing that God has to be or to do the thing that God has to be or to do the thing that God has called you to do. Why does God do it called you to do. Why does God do it called you to do. Why does God do it like this? He tells us over and over and like this? He tells us over and over and like this? He tells us over and over and over again. You remember the story of over again. You remember the story of over again. You remember the story of Gideon? Just rewind a little bit. Judges Gideon? Just rewind a little bit. Judges Gideon? Just rewind a little bit. Judges chapter 7. Gideon is a judge, a military chapter 7. Gideon is a judge, a military chapter 7. Gideon is a judge, a military leader. He's leading an army against the leader. He's leading an army against the leader. He's leading an army against the enemies of God's people. And they have a enemies of God's people. And they have a enemies of God's people. And they have a legit army. And God says, "Your army is legit army. And God says, "Your army is legit army. And God says, "Your army is too big."

That's like you trying to get out of That's like you trying to get out of debt and God being like, "Nah, you got debt and God being like, "Nah, you got debt and God being like, "Nah, you got too much money." too much money." too much money." He's like, "Your army is too big. He's like, "Your army is too big. He's like, "Your army is too big. I need you to send some of them home. I need you to send some of them home. I need you to send some of them home. And they do it over and over and over And they do it over and over and over And they do it over and over and over again until God brings that army all the again until God brings that army all the again until God brings that army all the way down to a ridiculous number. And way down to a ridiculous number. And way down to a ridiculous number. And here's what Judges 7:2 says. The Lord here's what Judges 7:2 says. The Lord here's what Judges 7:2 says. The Lord said to Gideon, "The people with you are said to Gideon, "The people with you are said to Gideon, "The people with you are too many for me to give the Midionites too many for me to give the Midionites too many for me to give the Midionites into their hand." Here's why. Lest into their hand." Here's why. Lest into their hand." Here's why. Lest Israel boast over me, saying, "My own Israel boast over me, saying, "My own Israel boast over me, saying, "My own hand has saved me." hand has saved me." hand has saved me." >> My God. You see the same thing in the New You see the same thing in the New Testament. 1 Corinthians chapter 1 26 Testament. 1 Corinthians chapter 1 26 Testament. 1 Corinthians chapter 1 26 says, "For consider your calling, says, "For consider your calling, says, "For consider your calling, brothers. Not many of you were wise brothers. Not many of you were wise brothers. Not many of you were wise according to worldly standards. Not many according to worldly standards. Not many according to worldly standards. Not many were powerful. Not many were of noble were powerful. Not many were of noble were powerful. Not many were of noble birth. But God chose what is foolish in birth. But God chose what is foolish in birth. But God chose what is foolish in the world to shame the wise. God chose the world to shame the wise. God chose the world to shame the wise. God chose what is weak in the world to shame the what is weak in the world to shame the what is weak in the world to shame the strong. God chose what is low and strong. God chose what is low and strong. God chose what is low and despised in the world, even things that despised in the world, even things that despised in the world, even things that are not, to bring to nothing things that are not, to bring to nothing things that are not, to bring to nothing things that are, so that no human being might boast are, so that no human being might boast are, so that no human being might boast in the presence of God." This sounds in the presence of God." This sounds in the presence of God." This sounds like the New York Knicks. I'll keep like the New York Knicks. I'll keep like the New York Knicks. I'll keep moving. [laughter] 2 Corinthians 4:7, 2 Corinthians 4:7, Paul writes, "But we have this treasure Paul writes, "But we have this treasure Paul writes, "But we have this treasure in jars of clay." Why? Why does God give in jars of clay." Why? Why does God give in jars of clay." Why? Why does God give the gospel to these weak, fragile, the gospel to these weak, fragile, the gospel to these weak, fragile, inadequate human beings? Here's why. To inadequate human beings? Here's why. To inadequate human beings? Here's why. To show that the surpassing power belongs show that the surpassing power belongs show that the surpassing power belongs to who? It belongs to God and not to us.

to who? It belongs to God and not to us. to who? It belongs to God and not to us. Listen to me. Here's the thread. God's Listen to me. Here's the thread. God's Listen to me. Here's the thread. God's purposes never depend on human purposes never depend on human purposes never depend on human qualifications qualifications qualifications >> and that's by design. So that the only >> and that's by design. So that the only >> and that's by design. So that the only reasonable headline over our lives is to reasonable headline over our lives is to reasonable headline over our lives is to God be the glory for the great things he God be the glory for the great things he God be the glory for the great things he has done. >> And so listen to me. Listen, I've said >> And so listen to me. Listen, I've said this to you before. I don't want to this to you before. I don't want to this to you before. I don't want to settle for a life that I can live in my settle for a life that I can live in my settle for a life that I can live in my own strength. Man, I want to be used by God to be a Man, I want to be used by God to be a part of something that is above what I part of something that is above what I part of something that is above what I could produce in my own wisdom and my could produce in my own wisdom and my could produce in my own wisdom and my own creativity and my own power. I want own creativity and my own power. I want own creativity and my own power. I want to experience what it's like to experience what it's like to experience what it's like to be a part of something that can only to be a part of something that can only to be a part of something that can only be explained by the power of God and be explained by the power of God and be explained by the power of God and only results in the praise and glory of only results in the praise and glory of only results in the praise and glory of God. God. God. God is always in control, always God is always in control, always God is always in control, always accomplishing his good purposes and accomplishing his good purposes and accomplishing his good purposes and unexpected circumstances through unexpected circumstances through unexpected circumstances through unlikely people. And even here's the unlikely people. And even here's the unlikely people. And even here's the final point, and even despite sinful final point, and even despite sinful final point, and even despite sinful decisions, we see God's providence even over sinful we see God's providence even over sinful decisions.

decisions. decisions. And this is hard for us to wrap our And this is hard for us to wrap our And this is hard for us to wrap our minds around. on a philosophical level minds around. on a philosophical level minds around. on a philosophical level for sure, but for so many of us here and for sure, but for so many of us here and for sure, but for so many of us here and watching on a personal level because of watching on a personal level because of watching on a personal level because of some of the choices that we've made. But as you read this story, you realize But as you read this story, you realize there's a tension here between God's there's a tension here between God's there's a tension here between God's judgment and God's mercy. judgment and God's mercy. judgment and God's mercy. We talked about God's judgment last week We talked about God's judgment last week We talked about God's judgment last week when we studied chapter 8. when we studied chapter 8. when we studied chapter 8. If if you weren't here last week or you If if you weren't here last week or you If if you weren't here last week or you didn't listen to that sermon, I'd didn't listen to that sermon, I'd didn't listen to that sermon, I'd encourage you to go online, go to our encourage you to go online, go to our encourage you to go online, go to our YouTube page, go to our website, watch YouTube page, go to our website, watch YouTube page, go to our website, watch that sermon, listen to that sermon. that sermon, listen to that sermon. that sermon, listen to that sermon. There's encouragement in in there for There's encouragement in in there for There's encouragement in in there for you, but also a challenge to our hearts you, but also a challenge to our hearts you, but also a challenge to our hearts because what did we see in chapter 8? because what did we see in chapter 8? because what did we see in chapter 8? The Israelites rejected God's leadership The Israelites rejected God's leadership The Israelites rejected God's leadership and demanded a king like other nations. and demanded a king like other nations. and demanded a king like other nations. So, so what happens in God's judgment? So, so what happens in God's judgment? So, so what happens in God's judgment? He gave them exactly what they thought He gave them exactly what they thought He gave them exactly what they thought they wanted. You remember this from they wanted. You remember this from they wanted. You remember this from chapter 8? In his judgment, he gave them chapter 8? In his judgment, he gave them chapter 8? In his judgment, he gave them exactly what they thought they wanted.

exactly what they thought they wanted. exactly what they thought they wanted. And that's why chapter nine starts the And that's why chapter nine starts the And that's why chapter nine starts the way it does. It's not setting up a blind way it does. It's not setting up a blind way it does. It's not setting up a blind date. date. date. Even though the main thing we learned Even though the main thing we learned Even though the main thing we learned about Saw at the beginning of the story about Saw at the beginning of the story about Saw at the beginning of the story is he's tall and handsome. What's is he's tall and handsome. What's is he's tall and handsome. What's happening there? In other words, Saul is happening there? In other words, Saul is happening there? In other words, Saul is outwardly impressive, at least from a outwardly impressive, at least from a outwardly impressive, at least from a human perspective. But God gives his human perspective. But God gives his human perspective. But God gives his perspective just a few chapters later perspective just a few chapters later perspective just a few chapters later when Samuel is about to select the next when Samuel is about to select the next when Samuel is about to select the next king. 1st Samuelter 16:7. But the Lord king. 1st Samuelter 16:7. But the Lord king. 1st Samuelter 16:7. But the Lord said to Samuel, "Do not look on his said to Samuel, "Do not look on his said to Samuel, "Do not look on his appearance or on the height of his appearance or on the height of his appearance or on the height of his stature, because I've rejected him. For stature, because I've rejected him. For stature, because I've rejected him. For the Lord sees not as man sees. Man looks the Lord sees not as man sees. Man looks the Lord sees not as man sees. Man looks on the outward appearance, but the Lord on the outward appearance, but the Lord on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart." looks on the heart." looks on the heart." >> The people wanted a king that who is >> The people wanted a king that who is >> The people wanted a king that who is outwardly impressive. outwardly impressive. outwardly impressive. But God says somebody who who's But God says somebody who who's But God says somebody who who's outwardly impressive can actually lead outwardly impressive can actually lead outwardly impressive can actually lead you in some dangerous, regretful you in some dangerous, regretful you in some dangerous, regretful directions. And I didn't know this until directions. And I didn't know this until directions. And I didn't know this until studying this passage this week, but studying this passage this week, but studying this passage this week, but when the Bible notes someone's when the Bible notes someone's when the Bible notes someone's impressive height, it's almost always impressive height, it's almost always impressive height, it's almost always associated with Israel's enemies.

associated with Israel's enemies. associated with Israel's enemies. Actually, I think Saul is the only Actually, I think Saul is the only Actually, I think Saul is the only Israelite in the Old Testament. Don't Israelite in the Old Testament. Don't Israelite in the Old Testament. Don't quote me on this, but I I I tried to quote me on this, but I I I tried to quote me on this, but I I I tried to chase this down. I think he's the only chase this down. I think he's the only chase this down. I think he's the only Israelite in the Old Testament who is Israelite in the Old Testament who is Israelite in the Old Testament who is referenced in terms of how tall he is. referenced in terms of how tall he is. referenced in terms of how tall he is. Everybody else is talking about Israel's Everybody else is talking about Israel's Everybody else is talking about Israel's enemies. enemies. enemies. You think about when the people go and You think about when the people go and You think about when the people go and spy out the promised land. What do they spy out the promised land. What do they spy out the promised land. What do they see? see? see? These tall These tall These tall people, soldiers, and they come back and people, soldiers, and they come back and people, soldiers, and they come back and they're terrified. They're like, "We're they're terrified. They're like, "We're they're terrified. They're like, "We're like grasshoppers." They just saw a like grasshoppers." They just saw a like grasshoppers." They just saw a bunch of wimpies. bunch of wimpies. bunch of wimpies. I keep using basketball. I apologize. The thing about Goliath, that The thing about Goliath, that Philistine, Philistine, Philistine, so tall, he was so outwardly impressive so tall, he was so outwardly impressive so tall, he was so outwardly impressive and so intimidating to God's people. and so intimidating to God's people. and so intimidating to God's people. And the Bible is not saying all tall And the Bible is not saying all tall And the Bible is not saying all tall people are evil. We know that. But what the Bible is teaching is that But what the Bible is teaching is that God is not impressed by the things we God is not impressed by the things we God is not impressed by the things we tend to be impressed by.

Good looks is not a sign of God's favor. Good looks is not a sign of God's favor. And God's people should have known that. And God's people should have known that. And God's people should have known that. But they were so obsessed with having an But they were so obsessed with having an But they were so obsessed with having an impressive king that they made the impressive king that they made the impressive king that they made the sinful and tragic decision to reject sinful and tragic decision to reject sinful and tragic decision to reject God. Now, now after they their rebellion God. Now, now after they their rebellion God. Now, now after they their rebellion in chapter 8, we would expect chapter 9 in chapter 8, we would expect chapter 9 in chapter 8, we would expect chapter 9 to go a different way. We would expect to go a different way. We would expect to go a different way. We would expect at this point chapter 9 to begin with at this point chapter 9 to begin with at this point chapter 9 to begin with God abandoning the relationship. You God abandoning the relationship. You God abandoning the relationship. You wanted another king. Fine. wanted another king. Fine. wanted another king. Fine. Have it your way. You're on your own. Have it your way. You're on your own. Have it your way. You're on your own. I'm giving you the thing you asked for. I'm giving you the thing you asked for. I'm giving you the thing you asked for. I'm giving you the thing you thought you I'm giving you the thing you thought you I'm giving you the thing you thought you wanted. I'm giving you the thing that wanted. I'm giving you the thing that wanted. I'm giving you the thing that you were so convinced was better than you were so convinced was better than you were so convinced was better than me. me. me. Go figure it out. That's not what happens. That's not what happens. In fact, you see God continuing to take In fact, you see God continuing to take In fact, you see God continuing to take care of his people. And this is where we care of his people. And this is where we care of his people. And this is where we see the tension. In one sense, Saul is see the tension. In one sense, Saul is see the tension. In one sense, Saul is an expression of God's judgment. God an expression of God's judgment. God an expression of God's judgment. God giving them over to what what they want.

giving them over to what what they want. giving them over to what what they want. And yet in another sense, God in his And yet in another sense, God in his And yet in another sense, God in his mercy will use even Saul to accomplish mercy will use even Saul to accomplish mercy will use even Saul to accomplish his good purpose for his people. his good purpose for his people. his good purpose for his people. Remember what God said to Samuel. 1st Remember what God said to Samuel. 1st Remember what God said to Samuel. 1st Samuel chapter 9:16, he says, "Tomorrow Samuel chapter 9:16, he says, "Tomorrow Samuel chapter 9:16, he says, "Tomorrow about this time, I will send to you a about this time, I will send to you a about this time, I will send to you a man from the land of Benjamin, and you man from the land of Benjamin, and you man from the land of Benjamin, and you shall anoint him to be prince over who?" shall anoint him to be prince over who?" shall anoint him to be prince over who?" >> My people Israel. That's wild. I'm way >> My people Israel. That's wild. I'm way >> My people Israel. That's wild. I'm way more petty than God. more petty than God. more petty than God. They reject God to his face. He won't abandon them. He won't abandon them. >> In fact, he calls Saul here a prince. >> In fact, he calls Saul here a prince. >> In fact, he calls Saul here a prince. Why? Because Saul is going to be a ruler Why? Because Saul is going to be a ruler Why? Because Saul is going to be a ruler under the providence of God. Because under the providence of God. Because under the providence of God. Because God, even though Samuel will be king, God, even though Samuel will be king, God, even though Samuel will be king, God is the king of kings and he has not God is the king of kings and he has not God is the king of kings and he has not given up on his people. He will be given up on his people. He will be given up on his people. He will be prince over my people. He shall save my prince over my people. He shall save my prince over my people. He shall save my people from the hand of the Philistines. people from the hand of the Philistines. people from the hand of the Philistines. Why? For I for I have seen my people Why? For I for I have seen my people Why? For I for I have seen my people because their cry has come to me because their cry has come to me because their cry has come to me even in their rebellion.

even in their rebellion. even in their rebellion. Their cry has come to me. Their cry has come to me. Their cry has come to me. And when Samuel saw saw the Lord told And when Samuel saw saw the Lord told And when Samuel saw saw the Lord told him, "Here is the man of whom I spoke to him, "Here is the man of whom I spoke to him, "Here is the man of whom I spoke to you. He it is who shall restrain, who you. He it is who shall restrain, who you. He it is who shall restrain, who shall rule over, shall rule over, shall rule over, who sh set set boundaries for my who sh set set boundaries for my who sh set set boundaries for my people." Listen to me. God is so people." Listen to me. God is so people." Listen to me. God is so powerful and so merciful that he powerful and so merciful that he powerful and so merciful that he accomplishes his good purposes even accomplishes his good purposes even accomplishes his good purposes even through sinful decisions. through sinful decisions. through sinful decisions. Even through sinful decisions. And this Even through sinful decisions. And this Even through sinful decisions. And this isn't the first time we've seen God work isn't the first time we've seen God work isn't the first time we've seen God work this way. You may be unfamiliar with the this way. You may be unfamiliar with the this way. You may be unfamiliar with the Bible, but you probably are somewhat Bible, but you probably are somewhat Bible, but you probably are somewhat familiar with this story. You think familiar with this story. You think familiar with this story. You think about it in the life of Joseph. His about it in the life of Joseph. His about it in the life of Joseph. His brothers betray him. Not like chill betray him, Not like chill betray him, like they steal his snacks. like they steal his snacks. like they steal his snacks. No, they sell him into slavery. No, they sell him into slavery. No, they sell him into slavery. He is trafficked into a foreign nation.

They betray him. They betray him. And you remember God is working in all And you remember God is working in all And you remember God is working in all of these ways because he's always in of these ways because he's always in of these ways because he's always in control and he's always working to control and he's always working to control and he's always working to accomplish his good purposes. And you accomplish his good purposes. And you accomplish his good purposes. And you see how God is guiding and blessing uh see how God is guiding and blessing uh see how God is guiding and blessing uh uh uh uh uh Joseph and then Genesis 50 uh uh uh uh Joseph and then Genesis 50 uh uh uh uh Joseph and then Genesis 50 20 when they come back together. You 20 when they come back together. You 20 when they come back together. You remember what Joseph said? remember what Joseph said? remember what Joseph said? Man, you can only say this if you have a Man, you can only say this if you have a Man, you can only say this if you have a deep settled conviction of the deep settled conviction of the deep settled conviction of the providence of God. He says, "As for you, providence of God. He says, "As for you, providence of God. He says, "As for you, you meant evil against me, but God meant you meant evil against me, but God meant you meant evil against me, but God meant it for good to bring about that many it for good to bring about that many it for good to bring about that many people should be kept alive as they are people should be kept alive as they are people should be kept alive as they are today." God raised Joseph up to be a steward over a harvest that to be a steward over a harvest that would serve the nation in the midst of a would serve the nation in the midst of a would serve the nation in the midst of a famine. It doesn't answer every famine. It doesn't answer every famine. It doesn't answer every question. And it doesn't resolve every question. And it doesn't resolve every question. And it doesn't resolve every tension, but it does declare the truth tension, but it does declare the truth tension, but it does declare the truth that God is always at work and he is that God is always at work and he is that God is always at work and he is always in control, even through sinful always in control, even through sinful always in control, even through sinful decisions. It's true in Joseph's life.

decisions. It's true in Joseph's life. decisions. It's true in Joseph's life. But the most profound example of this is But the most profound example of this is But the most profound example of this is in the crucifixion of Jesus. There is no crucifixion There is no crucifixion and there is no salvation without this and there is no salvation without this and there is no salvation without this tension tension tension that God is in control and God is at that God is in control and God is at that God is in control and God is at work even through sinful decisions. work even through sinful decisions. work even through sinful decisions. Because you remember what Acts chapter Because you remember what Acts chapter Because you remember what Acts chapter 20 uh 23 says. It says this Jesus 20 uh 23 says. It says this Jesus 20 uh 23 says. It says this Jesus listened up according to the definite listened up according to the definite listened up according to the definite plan and fornowledge of God. Look, you plan and fornowledge of God. Look, you plan and fornowledge of God. Look, you crucified and killed by the hands of crucified and killed by the hands of crucified and killed by the hands of who? Lawless men. And yet it it was the justice and And yet it it was the justice and judgment of God judgment of God judgment of God mingling with the mercy and the grace mingling with the mercy and the grace mingling with the mercy and the grace and the love of God and the love of God and the love of God working through the sinful decisions and working through the sinful decisions and working through the sinful decisions and actions of real people in real history actions of real people in real history actions of real people in real history in order to bring about the salvation in order to bring about the salvation in order to bring about the salvation that you and I desperately need. Jesus, that you and I desperately need. Jesus, that you and I desperately need. Jesus, the son of God, the eternal son of God, the son of God, the eternal son of God, the son of God, the eternal son of God, came to earth, lived a perfectly came to earth, lived a perfectly came to earth, lived a perfectly righteous life, and he allowed himself.

righteous life, and he allowed himself. righteous life, and he allowed himself. You remember what he says? He says, "You You remember what he says? He says, "You You remember what he says? He says, "You cannot cannot cannot kill me unless I lay down my own life." kill me unless I lay down my own life." kill me unless I lay down my own life." >> He willingly, voluntarily, joyfully lays >> He willingly, voluntarily, joyfully lays >> He willingly, voluntarily, joyfully lays down his life, allows himself to be down his life, allows himself to be down his life, allows himself to be crucified on the cross. Why? Because crucified on the cross. Why? Because crucified on the cross. Why? Because there's a bigger picture happening. there's a bigger picture happening. there's a bigger picture happening. Because God in his great mercy and God Because God in his great mercy and God Because God in his great mercy and God in his great love, Jesus Jesus because of the joy set before him takes because of the joy set before him takes because of the joy set before him takes the judgment of God that you and I the judgment of God that you and I the judgment of God that you and I deserve deserve deserve so that you and I could experience and so that you and I could experience and so that you and I could experience and enjoy the mercy that we could never enjoy the mercy that we could never enjoy the mercy that we could never earn. earn. earn. Even in this most heinous, Even in this most heinous, Even in this most heinous, sinful, sinful, sinful, tragic crime in all of human history, tragic crime in all of human history, tragic crime in all of human history, God, in ways we can't fully comprehend, God, in ways we can't fully comprehend, God, in ways we can't fully comprehend, was in control. And he was at work was in control. And he was at work was in control. And he was at work accomplishing his good purposes for all accomplishing his good purposes for all accomplishing his good purposes for all those who would put their trust in him.

Listen to me. Some of you are living Listen to me. Some of you are living with consequences that are the result of with consequences that are the result of with consequences that are the result of your own sinful or foolish choices. your own sinful or foolish choices. your own sinful or foolish choices. Like it's not a game. Like it's not a game. Like it's not a game. This is not just theory to you. This is not just theory to you. This is not just theory to you. The regrets sting The regrets sting The regrets sting every time you wake up in the morning every time you wake up in the morning every time you wake up in the morning because every day is another reminder of because every day is another reminder of because every day is another reminder of what you can't change. And you live in the consequences in your And you live in the consequences in your circumstances or in your conscience or circumstances or in your conscience or circumstances or in your conscience or or within your your heart, in your or within your your heart, in your or within your your heart, in your mental health or in your relationships, mental health or in your relationships, mental health or in your relationships, whatever it is. You live with the whatever it is. You live with the whatever it is. You live with the consequences of choices that you made. consequences of choices that you made. consequences of choices that you made. And listen to me, the good news isn't And listen to me, the good news isn't And listen to me, the good news isn't that those decisions don't matter, that those decisions don't matter, that those decisions don't matter, because they do. The good news, listen because they do. The good news, listen because they do. The good news, listen to me, is that they are not bigger than to me, is that they are not bigger than to me, is that they are not bigger than the mercy of God. They are not bigger the mercy of God. They are not bigger the mercy of God. They are not bigger than the providence of God. If he, than the providence of God. If he, than the providence of God. If he, listen, if he can take Joseph's listen, if he can take Joseph's listen, if he can take Joseph's brother's betrayal, and use it to save a brother's betrayal, and use it to save a brother's betrayal, and use it to save a nation, if he can take the greatest evil nation, if he can take the greatest evil nation, if he can take the greatest evil ever committed, the crucifixion of his ever committed, the crucifixion of his ever committed, the crucifixion of his son, and accomplish the salvation of the son, and accomplish the salvation of the son, and accomplish the salvation of the world, that he can take even the sinful world, that he can take even the sinful world, that he can take even the sinful and painful parts of your story and use and painful parts of your story and use and painful parts of your story and use them to accomplish his purposes. But you them to accomplish his purposes. But you them to accomplish his purposes. But you and I have a choice about whether or not and I have a choice about whether or not and I have a choice about whether or not we will consciously experience and get we will consciously experience and get we will consciously experience and get to enjoy the awareness of God's good

to enjoy the awareness of God's good to enjoy the awareness of God's good purposes. >> But make no mistake about it. God is >> But make no mistake about it. God is always in control always in control always in control >> and he is always working to accomplish >> and he is always working to accomplish >> and he is always working to accomplish his good purposes. And he invites us. He his good purposes. And he invites us. He his good purposes. And he invites us. He invites us to step into the wonder of invites us to step into the wonder of invites us to step into the wonder of his providence. his providence. his providence. Even when we struggle to see it, even Even when we struggle to see it, even Even when we struggle to see it, even when we struggle to understand it, we when we struggle to understand it, we when we struggle to understand it, we can know it deep down in our soul. That's why the Apostle Paul says Romans That's why the Apostle Paul says Romans 8:28, "And we know that in all things, 8:28, "And we know that in all things, 8:28, "And we know that in all things, in how many things?" in how many things?" in how many things?" In all things, God works for the good of In all things, God works for the good of In all things, God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called those who love him, who have been called those who love him, who have been called according to his according to his according to his purposes. purposes. purposes. Listen to me. God is not just making the Listen to me. God is not just making the Listen to me. God is not just making the best out of a bad situation. best out of a bad situation. best out of a bad situation. He's not reacting and scrambling to come He's not reacting and scrambling to come He's not reacting and scrambling to come up with a plan. Somehow in a way we up with a plan. Somehow in a way we up with a plan. Somehow in a way we can't fully comprehend yet, God is able can't fully comprehend yet, God is able can't fully comprehend yet, God is able to accomplish his eternal purposes even to accomplish his eternal purposes even to accomplish his eternal purposes even through unexpected circumstances and through unexpected circumstances and through unexpected circumstances and unlikely people. And yes, even through unlikely people. And yes, even through unlikely people. And yes, even through sinful, regretful, painful decisions.

sinful, regretful, painful decisions. sinful, regretful, painful decisions. Our circumstances and even our sin do Our circumstances and even our sin do Our circumstances and even our sin do not have the power to stop God's divine not have the power to stop God's divine not have the power to stop God's divine purposes. God is going to be God. God is purposes. God is going to be God. God is purposes. God is going to be God. God is going to do what he sets out to do. You going to do what he sets out to do. You going to do what he sets out to do. You and I have the choice of whether or not and I have the choice of whether or not and I have the choice of whether or not we will consciously be aware of it and we will consciously be aware of it and we will consciously be aware of it and personally get the joy of experiencing personally get the joy of experiencing personally get the joy of experiencing it day to day. it day to day. it day to day. And so an encouragement and a challenge And so an encouragement and a challenge And so an encouragement and a challenge as we close. as we close. as we close. Encouragement is simple. Simple. He's at Encouragement is simple. Simple. He's at Encouragement is simple. Simple. He's at work. Come on. Can you turn to the person next Come on. Can you turn to the person next to you and just encourage them? Tell to you and just encourage them? Tell to you and just encourage them? Tell them God is at work in your life. them God is at work in your life. them God is at work in your life. >> They don't believe you because you >> They don't believe you because you >> They don't believe you because you didn't say it like you believe it. Can didn't say it like you believe it. Can didn't say it like you believe it. Can you tell them God is at work in your you tell them God is at work in your you tell them God is at work in your life? Even if you don't know him and you don't Even if you don't know him and you don't believe him, that's how good he is. That believe him, that's how good he is. That believe him, that's how good he is. That he is at work in your life. And maybe he is at work in your life. And maybe he is at work in your life. And maybe maybe maybe maybe that's what has led you here.

that's what has led you here. that's what has led you here. be encouraged. You may not understand it be encouraged. You may not understand it be encouraged. You may not understand it all, but God does. And he has a plan, all, but God does. And he has a plan, all, but God does. And he has a plan, and he's inviting you to enjoy and and he's inviting you to enjoy and and he's inviting you to enjoy and experience that plan. But here's the experience that plan. But here's the experience that plan. But here's the challenge. Here's the challenge. challenge. Here's the challenge. challenge. Here's the challenge. Saul becomes king, Saul becomes king, Saul becomes king, Israel's first king. And that role was a responsibility and a And that role was a responsibility and a stewardship that he squandered. We'll stewardship that he squandered. We'll stewardship that he squandered. We'll see this. This is why we call this see this. This is why we call this see this. This is why we call this series rise and ruin. series rise and ruin. series rise and ruin. That he had the legitimate opportunity That he had the legitimate opportunity That he had the legitimate opportunity to steward what God had given him to steward what God had given him to steward what God had given him and he squandered it because of his own and he squandered it because of his own and he squandered it because of his own selfishness. Listen to me. You did not selfishness. Listen to me. You did not selfishness. Listen to me. You did not get where you are on your own. get where you are on your own. get where you are on your own. >> I don't care about your degrees, your >> I don't care about your degrees, your >> I don't care about your degrees, your hustle, your networking. You weren't hustle, your networking. You weren't hustle, your networking. You weren't born where you were born on your own. born where you were born on your own. born where you were born on your own. There are circumstances that you don't There are circumstances that you don't There are circumstances that you don't even know about that God was or you did even know about that God was or you did even know about that God was or you did not get where you are on your own. And not get where you are on your own. And not get where you are on your own. And specifically, I'm talking to you if you specifically, I'm talking to you if you specifically, I'm talking to you if you are in a leadership position.

God, his providence has allowed you to God, his providence has allowed you to have the privilege of leading other have the privilege of leading other have the privilege of leading other people. people. people. What are you going to do with it? He's in control and he's at work. He's in control and he's at work. Are you going to be a part a conscious Are you going to be a part a conscious Are you going to be a part a conscious participant in that work or will you participant in that work or will you participant in that work or will you squander it or continue to squander squander it or continue to squander squander it or continue to squander because of your own selfishness and sin because of your own selfishness and sin because of your own selfishness and sin and the temptations that come with power and the temptations that come with power and the temptations that come with power and authority. God's providence invites us to trust him God's providence invites us to trust him and to steward the opportunities he and to steward the opportunities he and to steward the opportunities he gives us. So, I want to leave you with a gives us. So, I want to leave you with a gives us. So, I want to leave you with a minute to just reflect. We're going to minute to just reflect. We're going to minute to just reflect. We're going to put a question up on the screen put a question up on the screen put a question up on the screen to help you just begin just a time of to help you just begin just a time of to help you just begin just a time of quiet prayer between you and the Lord. quiet prayer between you and the Lord. quiet prayer between you and the Lord. And then I or one of the leaders at your And then I or one of the leaders at your And then I or one of the leaders at your location is going to close us out. Take location is going to close us out. Take location is going to close us out. Take a minute between you and God.

Father, we thank you for your word. It Father, we thank you for your word. It is a gift to us is a gift to us is a gift to us in general, in general, in general, but also in the particular circumstances but also in the particular circumstances but also in the particular circumstances of our lives. God, you speak to us. I pray we would not take that for I pray we would not take that for granted. granted. granted. And God, I pray that you would help us And God, I pray that you would help us And God, I pray that you would help us to trust your providential hand to trust your providential hand to trust your providential hand even when we can't see it or understand even when we can't see it or understand even when we can't see it or understand it. it. it. We pray all this in Jesus name. We pray all this in Jesus name. We pray all this in Jesus name. Amen.