Forgiveness -
David and Saul

June 10, 2007 AM

Pastor Brad Dyrness

Sparks Nazarene Church

 

 

The story of kings David and Saul is a case study in forgiveness. The story is found in 1 Samuel, chapters 8-31.

 

David has the chance to kill the one trying to kill him.  It would have been self-defense; David refuses.  --1 Samuel 24:12

 

Forgiving is not forgetting; it is forgiving even when you remember.

 

How do we forgive even when we remember?

Psalm 57

 

1. I rely on God’s mercy and strength – vs. 1

 

2.    I submit to His spiritual authority – vs. 1

 

The ark held the Lord - the physical representation of the spiritual authority of God - and the protection that submission brings.

 

3.    I trust in God’s purpose for me -  vs. 2 

 

4.     God sends the needed help and the enemy is overcome – vss. 3-6

 

Ephesians 6:12 - For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.

 

The enemy is not the one you can see with your eyes, but rather Satan himself, who is attacking you through those who oppose you!

 

5.  I CAN stand up against the enemy because of the steadfastness of God! –vs. 7

 

Forgiving is about letting the character of God spill out of you onto the world in which you live. 

 

In our cave
of doubt, fear,
and rebellion,
we can talk to God, who is our refuge.