Jesus, as the compassionate Son of God, demonstrates His divine authority by healing, delivering, and proclaiming the Kingdom of God, offering hope and restoration to those who seek Him.

In this opening chapter of Mark, we identify four ways Jesus shows His compassion, which brings hope and restoration.

1. Jesus Heals (v.29–34)
2. Jesus Prays (v.35–37)
3. Jesus Preaches (v.38–39)
4. Jesus Cleanses (v.40–45)

God showed that David spared Saul's life despite having the opportunity to kill him, demonstrating his trust in God's timing. God's people can wait on God and trust His timing.

Three ways to trust God while waiting for His timing.

1. Trust God's Protection (v.1–2; Ps. 57)
2. Trust God's Promises (v.3–5)
3. Trust God's Providence (v.6–8)

God revealed that David’s military victories sparked public admiration, Saul’s increasing jealousy, and an unsuccessful scheme to harm David. Envy can grow subtly and result in harmful actions.

Three ways to guard against envy.

1. Detect Envy's Precursors (v.6–7)
2. Stop Envy's Development (v.8–9)
3. Beware Envy's Destruction (v.10–19)

God showed the Israelites that Jonathan formed a deep bond with David, giving him gifts and pledging loyalty. True Christian friendship brings immense value and divine blessing.

Ten marks of genuine Christian friendship.

1. Christian Friendships Are Unplanned (v.1a)
2. Christian Friendships Involve the Soul (v.1b)
3. Christian Friendships Require Love (v.1c)
4. Christian Friendships Are Selective (v.1d)
5. Christian Friendships Prioritize Others (v.1e)
6. Christian Friendships Reject Envy (v.2)
7. Christian Friendships Are Commitments (v.3)
8. Christian Friendships Show Humility (v.4a)
9. Christian Friendships Are Generous (v.4b)
10. Christian Friendships Promote Success (v.5)

God enables the underestimated to overcome great challenges and achieve victory.

Five key steps God's people follow to attain victory.

1. We Volunteer (v.31–37)
2. We Prepare (v.38–40)
3. We Speak Out (v.41–47)
4. We Proceed Bravely (v.48–51)
5. We Inspire (v.52–58)

God equips Christians through faith to confront challenges for His divine purposes.

Three essential attitudes to adopt for facing a hostile world.

1. Be Militant (v.1–11, 16)
2. Be Faithful (v.12–22)
3. Be Ready (v.23–30)

God sovereignly directs His people to fulfill His purposes, using their unique abilities.

Four steps to ready yourself for God’s purposes for your life.

1. Cultivate Your Skills (v.18a)
2. Acknowledge God's Empowerment (v.18b)
3. Obey Your Authorities (v.19–20)
4. Serve Others Selflessly (v.21–23)

God alone ordains all things, including who He chooses to save.

Four facets of how God chooses His elect.

1. God Rejects Some (v.1a)
2. God Decrees His Chosen (v.1b–3)
3. God Provides a New Heart (v.4–12)
4. God Preserves His Chosen (v.13)