Dig Deeper - Sunday 17th March 2025
Sermon Reflection Questions - Navigating Conflict with Integrity
1 Samuel 24
Dig Deeper notes from Sunday 17th March service:
Have you ever had a difficult relationship—perhaps with a boss, friend, family member, or
spouse? These relationships test our character and provide an opportunity for growth and
to advance God's kingdom.
Last week, we explored David’s victory over Goliath. Today, we focus on his encounter
with King Saul at the cave of En Gedi (1 Samuel 24). Though anointed as Israel’s next
king, David faced betrayal, exile, and pursuit by Saul. Despite this, he remained faithful
and navigated conflict with integrity.
David’s relationship with Saul was marked by tension. One moment, Saul treated him as a
trusted confidant; the next, he sought to kill him. Many of us can relate to dealing with
unpredictable people.
At St. John's, we want to commit to putting others before ourselves, as Jesus taught.
Let’s examine how David approached conflict with integrity, love, and care, offering us
wisdom for handling our own challenges.
1. David Put Saul First
Instead of seeking revenge, David honoured Saul. When Saul entered the cave where
David was hiding, David’s men urged him to kill Saul and take the throne. Yet David
refused. Instead, he cut off a corner of Saul’s robe, an act that later caused him guilt.
Though unfairly hunted, he still respected Saul as God’s anointed king.
2. David Put God First
David’s integrity was rooted in trusting God’s timing rather than seeking justice for
himself. He declared, “The Lord forbid that I should do this to my lord, the Lord's
anointed.” Rather than taking matters into his own hands, David trusted God’s plan,
reminding us that justice belongs to God, not us.
3. David Built a Culture of Relationship
Every relationship has an underlying culture. David shaped his relationship with Saul
through respect rather than vengeance. He knew that using power for revenge would set
a dangerous precedent. By showing restraint, he demonstrated leadership rooted in faith
and respect.
4. David Confronted Saul with Humility
David did not ignore the conflict but addressed Saul directly with humility. When Saul left
the cave, David called out, “My lord the king” and bowed in respect. Instead of
accusations, he sought peace. Jesus said, “Blessed are the peacemakers.” True
confrontation seeks resolution, not victory.
5. David Thought the Best of Saul
Even while confronting Saul, David gave him the benefit of the doubt, asking, “Why do
you listen to those who say, ‘David is bent on harming you?’” He assumed Saul was
misled rather than malicious, fostering trust rather than hostility. At St. John’s, we aim to
think the best of others, believing in their good intentions.
6. David Confronted with Honesty
David showed Saul the piece of robe he had cut, proving he could have killed him but
chose not to. This moved Saul to tears, momentarily acknowledging David’s
righteousness. David, however, remained cautious, knowing Saul’s change of heart might
not last. His confrontation was truthful, not manipulative.
So what can we learn from this…
• Put others first. Even when wronged, show honour and respect.
• Put God first. Trust His timing over personal justice.
• Build a culture of peace. Our actions define our relationships.
• Confront with humility. Grace fosters reconciliation.
• Think the best of others. Assume good intentions rather than cynicism.
• Be honest in confrontation. Seek peace rather than victory.
Difficult relationships are inevitable. But how we respond reveals our character. Like
David, let us be people of integrity, trusting God, seeking peace, and leading by example.
Questions to think about and discuss:
1. Read 1 Samuel 24:1-7 – David had the perfect opportunity to kill Saul, yet he chose not
to. What does this reveal about David’s character? How does this challenge the way we
handle conflict?
2. Read 1 Samuel 24:8-15 – David confronts Saul with humility rather than anger. What do
you notice about David’s words and approach? How does this compare to the way
conflict is often handled today?
3. David refused to take matters into his own hands, trusting that God would handle Saul
in His own time. What are some situations where we struggle to wait for God’s timing?
What does this passage teach us about patience and faith?
4. David had a chance to take the throne by force but refused. How does this contrast
with how leaders in the world often gain power? What kind of leadership does this
passage encourage?
5. David gave Saul the benefit of the doubt, assuming he was misled rather than
inherently evil. How does this approach help build trust? What are some challenges in
applying this principle in our own relationships?
6. What is one practical way you can apply David’s example of integrity, humility, or trust
in God to a difficult relationship in your life?
Prayer:
Lord, thank You for the lessons we learn from David. Please help us to approach
conflict with wisdom, humility, and faith. May we honour You in all our relationships and
trust in Your perfect timing. Amen
