"Bait of Satan".... thoughts to consider this week

"WHEN REJECTED BY A FATHER"



Read pages 33-38 and pages 193-195 "Bait of Satan" by John Bevere

Read I Samuel 16-31.



Malachi 4:6 "And he will turn the hearts of the fathers to the children,
and the hearts of the children to their fathers, lest I come and strike the
earth with a curse."



John Bevere, in this section of his book, is referring to any leader God
puts over us when he speaks of "fathers" (not just biological fathers).
These are the people we trust to love, train, nurture, and care for us.

Think of the "fathers" in the past from whom you have experienced rejection:
Biological father, church staff, boss, close friend, stepfather, elder,
teacher, pastor, deacon, or leader.



Saul's rejection of David is one biblical example of a father's rejection.
(re-read the story)

As you read the story, write down the ways David could have been tempted to
take up an offense against Saul:

1.

2.

3.

Complete these sentences:

David treated Saul_________________________.

Instead of revenge, David _________________________.



Think about this: Saul enjoyed the success of David until he saw David's
success as a threat to him. See what insecurity does to your call as a
leader?!



Read I Samuel 24:11 and complete these sentences:

When someone attacks me, God wants me to _______________________________.

When someone rejects me, God wants me to
_________________________________________.



Consider: If your father figure or leader is doing something sinful and
wrong, instead of being offended, pray for that person. God will correct
him----that's His job, not yours. Remember, you are just called to serve
with a pure heart. Refuse to clutter up your own heart with the sin of
offense due to other people's insecurities.



Prayer: God, Help us to release to You our feelings of offense. We do not
want a cluttered heart that is not sensitive to your touch. We choose this
day to follow Your example in scripture as You lived the life of a servant
of God. We will choose to pray for those who have rejected us and pray for
your mercy to cover their lives. In Jesus' Name, Amen.



Let's grow in God together,

Becky





******ADDED EVENT:

Sunday evening Dec. 14 -----Be at Billtown campus around 4:45. This is our
big Church-wide Christmas celebration and we will walk in together as the
Singles Ministry. (Let's plan some really funny signs to carry!) Then,
let's go out for coffee or dinner afterwards. You choose the place! It'll
be a great time.