1 Samuel 26: Self-Control
YOU'RE ON A diet. As you pick up a magazine, you turn innocently to the food section. "After all," you say to yourself, "pictures aren't fattening." As you pore over every page, each dessert looks better than the last one. You decide to read in the kitchen because "the light is better." After a few minutes, you begin thinking about the ice cream in the freezer. A model of restraint, you decide to get only one spoonful—well, two at the most. Pretty soon you've eaten the whole quart! Sound familiar? We all struggle with self-control. And temptations often blind our better judgment. In 1 Samuel 26 David faces the powerful temptation of choosing between self-gratification and self-control. His response can encourage us in our struggles.
Warming Up to God
In what area of your life would you like to have greater self-control?
Read 1 Samuel 26. »
Discovering the Word
- Describe the tension and dangers involved in David's plan (vv. 5-7).
- Abishai tells David to seize this golden opportunity to kill Saul (v. 8). Why would this be a tempting suggestion?
- Why does David resist the temptation to take matters into his own hands (vv. 9-11)?
- From a safe distance David calls out to Abner (vv. 13-16). How would his words to Abner make Saul more receptive to him?
- What does the passage teach about how God regards human life (vv. 21-24)?
Applying the Word
- When we are tempted to sin, how can our attitude toward God's will affect the outcome?
- If we know God is present to help us in our struggle, how can it be easier to exercise self-control?
- In what ways can our commitment to doing God's will affect Christians and non-Christians as they observe us?
Responding in Prayer
Think again about that area where you desire greater self-control. Ask God's Spirit to cultivate this fruit within you.
For Further Study
Fruit of the Spirit by Hazel Offner