Anchor My Faith

Facilitator: Stephen Weller
1,043 words, 6 minutes read time
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Victory Through Grief, Faith in the Risen Christ, Hope in God’s Word, and Wisdom Before Authority

Old Testament Reading

2 Samuel 18:1–19:10 — Absalom’s Defeat and David’s Grief

Overview:
David organized his forces and sent them into battle against Absalom’s army, instructing his commanders to deal gently with his son. The battle ended in a great victory for David’s men, but Absalom was caught in a tree and killed by Joab despite David’s command. When David learned of Absalom’s death, he was overwhelmed with grief and mourned deeply for his son. His sorrow became so intense that it overshadowed the victory and discouraged the troops. Joab rebuked David for his public mourning, reminding him of the loyalty of the soldiers who had risked their lives for him. David responded by appearing before the people, while the nation began the process of restoring him to the throne.

Theological Themes:
• The consequences of sin and rebellion
• The tension between justice and mercy
• God’s faithfulness in preserving His covenant king

Key Verse:
2 Samuel 18:33 – “And the king was deeply moved and went up to the chamber over the gate and wept. And as he went, he said, ‘O my son Absalom, my son, my son Absalom! Would I had died instead of you.’”

Discussion Questions with Answers:

1. Why was David so grieved over Absalom’s death?
   Answer:
   Although Absalom had rebelled against him, he was still David’s son. David’s grief reflected both a father’s love and sorrow over the tragic consequences of Absalom’s sinful choices.
2. Why did Joab confront David about his mourning?
   Answer:
   David’s public grief was discouraging the soldiers who had faithfully defended him. Joab reminded David that his responsibilities as king required him to encourage and lead the people.
3. What does this passage teach about sin’s consequences?
   Answer:
   Absalom’s rebellion brought destruction to himself and sorrow to many others. Sin often affects far more people than the one committing it.

New Testament Reading

John 20:1–31 — The Resurrection of Jesus Christ

Psalms Reading

Psalm 119:153–176 — A Prayer for Deliverance and Faithfulness

Overview:
In this final section of Psalm 119, the psalmist pleads for God’s deliverance, mercy, and salvation while affirming his unwavering love for God’s Word. Despite persecution and affliction, he remains committed to the Lord’s commandments and trusts in God’s righteous judgments. The psalm concludes with a humble confession of dependence, comparing himself to a lost sheep seeking the Shepherd’s care. Throughout the passage, God’s Word remains the source of hope, guidance, and life.

Theological Themes:
• Confidence in God’s Word during affliction
• God’s mercy and salvation
• The believer’s dependence upon the Lord

Key Verse:
Psalm 119:160 – “The sum of your word is truth, and every one of your righteous rules endures forever.”

Discussion Questions with Answers:

1. How does the psalmist respond to suffering?
   Answer:
   Rather than abandoning God, he turns to Him in prayer and relies upon His Word for strength, guidance, and hope.
2. What does this passage teach about Scripture?
   Answer:
   God’s Word is completely true, eternally reliable, and sufficient to guide believers through every circumstance of life.
3. Why does the psalm end with the image of a lost sheep?
   Answer:
   The psalmist recognizes his need for God’s continual guidance and grace. Even faithful believers depend upon the Shepherd to seek, guide, and preserve them.

Proverbs Reading

Proverbs 16:14–15 — Wisdom Before a King

Overview:
These proverbs emphasize the importance of responding wisely to those in positions of authority. A ruler’s anger can bring severe consequences, but wisdom seeks peace and reconciliation. Conversely, a ruler’s favor brings life, blessing, and opportunity. The verses remind readers that wise conduct and discernment are valuable in relationships with leaders and reflect a broader principle of pursuing peace and favor through righteous living.

Theological Themes:
• Wisdom in dealing with authority
• The value of peace and reconciliation
• Blessing associated with favor and righteousness

Key Verse:
Proverbs 16:15 – “In the light of a king’s face there is life, and his favor is like the clouds that bring the spring rain.”

Discussion Questions with Answers:

1. Why is wisdom important when dealing with authority?
   Answer:
   Wise behavior promotes peace, prevents unnecessary conflict, and demonstrates respect for God-ordained structures of leadership.
2. What does the proverb mean by a king’s favor being like spring rain?
   Answer:
   Just as rain brings growth and blessing to the land, favor from a ruler can bring opportunity, prosperity, and well-being.
3. How can these verses apply to believers today?
   Answer:
   Christians should seek wisdom, humility, and peace in their relationships with leaders, employers, and others in authority, reflecting godly character in all interactions.