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Repaying Good for Evil

January 7, 2018 Speaker: Fred Greco Series: 1 Samuel

Topic: AM Service Passage: 1 Samuel 24:1–22

The world we live in often provides more examples of the nature of sin and selfishness than we would ever desire. For many of us, injustice, unkindness, and unfairness touch our lives. This can bring about a longing to see things set right, to see the wicked punished, and to see God’s people (including us!) rewarded for their faithfulness. That longing can drive us to strike out on our own, forgetting the promises and warnings of God’s Word. Such “shortcuts” to justice deny the reality of faith, which is trusting the Lord to bring about His will in His time. Paul sets this forth in Romans: “Repay no one evil for evil, but give thought to do what is honorable in the sight of all. If possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all. Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, “Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.” (Romans 12:17–19) For David, this truth was not just theoretical – he was living it every day, especially when Saul wandered into his cave! In seeing David rely on the Lord, we can learn and live our lives “Repaying Good for Evil” (1 Samuel 24:1-22).

I. Test of the Shortcut
A. A Surprising Opportunity
B. A Firm Commitment to God’s Word

II. Trust in the Lord
A. Confidence in God’s Justice
B. The Fruit of Trust

III. Testimony to the Lord’s Faithfulness
A. To David
B. To David’s Greater Son

Questions for consideration: (1) When have you been tempted to take a shortcut to a blessing? What resulted from that? What did you learn? (2) Why is it so hard to wait on the Lord for justice or vindication? What can you do to make it easier to wait on Him? (3) How has the Lord shown His faithfulness to you? Can you think of a specific circumstance? How did that affect you in the future?

More in 1 Samuel

March 11, 2018

Is This the End?

March 4, 2018

Strength in the Midst of Struggle

February 18, 2018

Saved by the Philistines