Discussion Guide
This week we look into a time in Scripture where the Israelites wanted to be like all the other people around them. Other nations had kings, so they wanted one as well, so they asked God for a king. As you can imagine, and as we will see, this was not God’s plan or His best for His chosen people. But like we often do, they demanded their way and so begins a long journey of difficult consequences to the choice they made to have a king “like everyone else,” instead of God as their true King.
What you will need: A Bible or your Bible app, a notebook, pen, and highlighter. The verses highlighted below are linked so that you can easily access them during your study time.
Jump Start
1. Have you ever had “yard envy”? Maybe it’s someone’s lawn, or maybe it’s something else—like a job, newer car, nicer kitchen, or even someone’s vacation photos. Share a time when what looked so much better at first glance turned out not to be as great as you thought. Or maybe you discovered that your own “grass” just needed a little care and attention.
2. Read 1 Samuel 8:11-20. Like Israel, why do we struggle with choosing to trust a man (or woman) to lead us instead of God? Why do you think God allowed them to have what they wanted? What are some modern examples of how we try to be “like everyone else”? Why is the pull toward cultural acceptance so strong?
3. Read 1 Kings 3:3, 9-14. What do we see about Solomon’s heart at the beginning of his reign? What was God’s promise to him if he followed faithfully? How does this encourage you about the importance of starting with humility?
4. Read 1 Kings 11:1-4, 9. How did Solomon’s heart change over time, and why? How can we see the same pattern in leaders today—in churches, workplaces, and even in our own lives? What dangers come when we allow others to influence and pull our hearts away from God? How is drifting from God often gradual? How can community and accountability guard against this?
5. Read Revelation 19:13-16. How does this picture of Jesus as the “King of Kings” reshape our desire to follow worldly patterns? What difference does it make to know our King is perfect, eternal, and victorious?
6. Action Steps: This week identify, one area where you’ve been tempted to want what others have instead of trusting God. What voices, people, or platforms are influencing you most? Is there an area of your life where you have refused to make Jesus Lord and Master: finances, thought life, relationships, work ethics, or something else?
Deeper Dive (Optional): Read Genesis 13:10-13, 19:12-16. What looked so appealing to Lot at first? What hidden cost came with his choice? How was Abraham's faith-filled posture different?