David Becomes King

Following the tragic death of King Saul and his son Jonathan in battle, as we read in 1 Samuel chapter 31, a period of uncertainty fell upon Israel. In 2 Samuel chapters 1 and 2, we see David's reaction to the news of Saul's death, his lament for Saul and Jonathan, and the subsequent events that led to him being anointed king over the tribe of Judah.

Discussion Questions:

1. How did David react when he received the news of Saul and Jonathan's deaths? What does his response reveal about his character and his feelings towards them?
2. Why do you think David mourned for Saul, even after Saul had relentlessly pursued him?
3. Who initially anointed David as king? Over which part of Israel did he reign first? Where was this anointing ceremony held?
4. What was the state of the rest of Israel after Saul's death? Who was made king over the other tribes, and what was his relationship to Saul?
5. Why do you think Judah was the first tribe to acknowledge David as their king?
6. What does this part of the story teach us about leadership, mourning, and the process of God's plans unfolding?
7. Have you ever experienced a mix of emotions after the passing of someone with whom you had a complex relationship?
8. How can we honor the past while also embracing the future that God has for us?

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, we thank you for the way you work in your perfect timing. We see how you honored David's heart and eventually brought him to the throne. Help us to trust in your plan for our lives, even through times of transition and uncertainty. Give us hearts that can mourn and honor the past while also being open to the new beginnings you provide. Amen.

This discussion is based on The One Year Bible Storybook by Virginia Muir.