THE DANGER OF A SELF-DIRECTED LIFE

                                                        1 Samuel 31:1-10 (249)

   Introduction

       A.  God had made a special arrangement with the children of Israel.

             1.  He had led them with judges and prophets for years, but they became discontent

                  and desired a king like the other nations.  1 Samuel 8:4-9

       B.  God consented and chose Saul from the tribe of Benjamin.  1 Samuel 9:15-17

       C.  Let’s fast forward forty years and read 1 Samuel 31:1-10 (249), which is about the

             consequences of a self-directed life.

       D.  We can learn several lessons from King Saul.

  I.  King Saul had a great beginning.

       A.  He had been chosen by God.  1 Samuel 9:17 (229)  What an honor,etc!

             1.  He had extraordinary physical qualities.  1 Samuel 9:2 (228)

             2.  Saul was specially blessed by God.  1 Samuel 10:6-9

       B.  Application

             1.  We have been chosen by God to do His will.  Ephesians 4:1 (865)

             2.  God has blessed us with abilities.  Romans 12:5-8 (837)

             3.  God works in us to “will” and “to do His good pleasures.”  Philippians 2:12-13

                  (868)

  II.  King Saul became a self- directed man.

       A.  Example:  1 Samuel 13:9-15 (232).  He usurped responsibility and disobeyed God’s

             command.

       B.  Application

             1.  There are people today who live self-directed lives.  Example:  Ephesians 4:20-

                  32 (865).  They are apt to lie, become angry and sin, etc.

III.  Let’s note the results of a self-directed life.

      A.  God withdrew His blessings and presence from Saul.  I Sam. 15:10-11,13-15 20-23;

            1 Sam. 16:14 (236).  He lived a miserable life and committed suicide. 1 Sam. 31:4

      B.  Question to ask ourselves:  Am I guilty of living a self-directed life ?

            1.  Something to consider:  Hebrews 6:4-6 (885; 2 Peter 2:20-22 (899)

            2.  What to do: repent (Luke 13:3) and ask God for forgiveness 1 John 1:9

Conclusion:  Where am I in my relationship to God’s will?  Acts 8:35-39 (808)