Big Idea: We do not see as God sees.

            1 Samuel 15:35b

What Samuel Saw: A Fallen King...

            1 Samuel 16:1-4, 7, 10-11

What Jesse Saw: A Forsaken Son...

            Proverbs 18:21

            1 Samuel 16:11-14, 18, 21, 23

What Saul saw: A Faithful Servant...

What did God see in David?

             Psalm 78:70-72

God saw:

• A Shepherd
• A Servant

God saw: A Future King.

            1 Samuel 13:14

How can we see as God does? We can’t...

How can we see closer to how God does?

• The Word of God
• The People of God

How might you be seeing differently than God?

Message Questions

We’re in a year-long journey through the books of 1 and 2 Samuel, tracing the rise, reign, and legacy of Israel’s most famous king. We’ll see the story of how God works through real people with real flaws to accomplish his purposes. This week we are in 1 Samuel 16, and the big idea is: We do not see as God sees. 

Use these questions to discuss the message from Sunday, focusing on how you can grow as an everyday follower of Jesus and how you can go accomplish what Jesus calls you to do.

1. Have someone read 1 Samuel 16:1–5. What emotions or fears is Samuel wrestling with in this passage? How do you relate to the tension between grieving the past and stepping into God’s future?
2. Have someone read 1 Samuel 16:6–13. What does this passage teach us about how God chooses people? Why do you think God emphasizes the heart over outward appearance?
3. Have someone read 1 Samuel 16:14–23. What stands out to you about David’s role in Saul’s life? What does this teach us about God’s preparation and placement, even before someone steps fully into their calling?
4. What would it look like to grow in seeing others, not solely by their appearances or abilities, but by their heart?
5. How could you go live differently this week—at work, at home, or in your community—by trusting that God sees and uses even what others overlook?