The Good, Beautiful and Kind - A Calm Presence
Speaker: Pastor Josh Jansen
Read: 1 Samuel 16:14-18, 23; 17:1-52; 18:8-11; 19:8-10; 2 Samuel 22:1-3, 32-37; Psalm 18
We should not be surprised when we have trouble in this life for it was promised that such days would come. God’s desire is that when they come, we exhibit a calming presence. A calming presence is not an innate personality trait given to some, but is an acquired way of being based on knowing who you are, where to go, and having the fortitude to not give up. David, though his actions were not always honorable, was an example of a man who was noticed because of his unique ability to fight and his calming presence. Not only was he able to calm Saul with his harp when the evil spirits tormented Saul, but he was able to be a calming presence in the midst of his own trials.
David experienced several crisis situations, yet was very much aware of who he was. When challenged by a lion and a bear, he did not let fear cause him to give up, but instead he subdued them and later took up the fight against Goliath. Being fully aware of the challenge he faced, his confidence was not in Saul’s armor but in the God who had delivered him before. In addition to these battles, he was continuously on the run from Saul who filled with jealousy and anger sought to kill him. Yet in the midst of all of this David found it in himself to write songs like Psalm 18 that indicated that he had a calm presence and knew where to go to find refuge. The key for us to learn the art of battling trouble and having a calm presence lies with having the Holy Spirit at work in us and through us. It is He who brings forth a peace that transcends all understanding.
GROUP QUESTIONS:
What resonated with you as you listened to this sermon and reviewed it?
What do you usually do when trouble comes your way? Where do you find refuge in troubling times?
How does knowing who you are help one have a calming presence? What does it mean to you to have a calming presence?
Why is it important to face the challenges rather than denying their existence or simply giving up?
Read Psalm 16:1, 56:1 and 18:1-2. What similarities do you see in these Scriptures?
It was said that we cannot use someone else’s armor, nor can we place our armor on others. What does this mean to you?
Read 2 Samuel 22:1-51. Which verses in this passage speak to you?
