What do you hope for? That’s the big question we’re diving into today! In this episode, we chat about the nature of hope—how it can lift us up or leave us feeling pretty dashed when things don’t go as planned. We explore the Israelites' hope in King Saul and how that hope quickly crumbles under pressure, revealing that sometimes our expectations can lead us astray. But don’t worry, it’s not all doom and gloom! We also highlight God's unwavering faithfulness, showing us that even when our hopes are misplaced, He remains steadfast and true. So join Dave as he explores 1 Samuel 11-14, and see how Jonathon's faith in God gives him hope and courage, while Saul's Faithlessness drives him into fear.

Find out more about Dave and the show at faithfulgod.net.

Show your thanks and support for Dave and help other people hear Stories of a Faithful God by signing up for the monthly prayer letter and by becoming a regular financial supporter here.

To ask a question, make a comment, give encouragement or invite Dave to speak, you can make contact here.

If you have or know kids, be sure to check out Dave's other podcast, Stories of a Faithful God for Kids.

The Christian Standard Bible. Copyright © 2017 by Holman Bible Publishers. Used by permission. Christian Standard Bible®, and CSB® are federally registered trademarks of Holman Bible Publishers, all rights reserved.

What do you want from a leader? For Israel, they wanted to move towards having a human king, just like the nations around them. By making that request, they were rejecting their one true king, the Lord God. God could just abandon them, but instead, he shows his love yet again by establishing a kingship that will leads to both their salvation and the salvation of the world. Join Dave as he explores 1 Samuel 8-10, and discover the faithful love of God in caring for his rebellious people.

Find out more about Dave and the show at faithfulgod.net.

Show your thanks and support for Dave and help other people hear Stories of a Faithful God by signing up for the monthly prayer letter and by becoming a regular financial supporter here.

To ask a question, make a comment, give encouragement or invite Dave to speak, you can make contact here.

If you have or know kids, be sure to check out Dave's other podcast, Stories of a Faithful God for Kids.

The Christian Standard Bible. Copyright © 2017 by Holman Bible Publishers. Used by permission. Christian Standard Bible®, and CSB® are federally registered trademarks of Holman Bible Publishers, all rights reserved.

Do you ever try to manipulate God? He holds the greatest power in the universe, and we often want it used for our own plans. In today's story, we explore how the Israelites try to weaponise the power of God by taking the ark with them into battle. They are going to learn, though, that God is not a tool to be wielded whenever they want, but the king of the universe. Only through true worship can they come to enjoy the true power of God. Join Dave as he explores 1 Samuel 4-7.

Takeaways:

• In the podcast, the host emphasizes the importance of allowing biblical passages to communicate their intended messages without personal bias or interpretation.
• The narrative highlights the contrast between genuine devotion to God and the tendencies of individuals to manipulate Him for personal gain.
• The discussion also delves into the consequences faced by the Israelites due to their failure to respect and honor God's sovereignty during their battles.
• Furthermore, the episode illustrates the significance of true repentance and reliance on God as the Israelites finally turn away from false gods and seek His assistance.

Find out more about Dave and the show at faithfulgod.net.

Show your thanks and support for Dave and help other people hear Stories of a Faithful God by signing up for the monthly prayer letter and by becoming a regular financial supporter here.

To ask a question, make a comment, give encouragement or invite Dave to speak, you can make contact here.

If you have or know kids, be sure to check out Dave's other podcast, Stories of a Faithful God for Kids.

The Christian Standard Bible. Copyright © 2017 by Holman Bible Publishers. Used by permission. Christian Standard Bible®, and CSB® are federally registered trademarks of Holman Bible Publishers, all rights reserved.