The Kingmaker: Lessons from 1 Samuel for a Gathering Season

Brothers and sisters, have you ever felt the ache of a longing for righteous leadership? A yearning for a shepherd who truly understands the flock? Israel did, too. They cried out for a king, believing that a human ruler would solve their problems, would bring stability and power. But as we see in the book of 1 Samuel, God doesn’t simply grant wishes. He works in ways that often challenge our assumptions, and even when the outcome isn't what we initially desired, His hand is present, shaping a path toward His ultimate purpose.

The Dutch BibleProject video beautifully unpacks the structure of 1 Samuel, revealing a profound narrative of transition, failure, and ultimately, the promise of a faithful king. It’s a story echoing through the ages, resonating with the very heart of our own gathering. We see the chaos born of judges, the flawed ambition of Saul, and the nascent rise of David – a pattern of divine intervention, correction, and provision. Just as Samuel the Lamanite climbed the walls of Jerusalem to declare the words of the Lord, so too are we called to proclaim the message of gathering, even when it’s uncomfortable, even when it’s met with resistance. Remember Ammon at the Waters of Sebus – bold, courageous, delivering a vital message despite the danger. That’s the spirit we need now.

Hannah's song, so early in the book, sets the tone for the entire narrative. God opposes the proud, and He exalts the humble. This isn't merely a historical observation; it’s a principle that governs our lives and our movements today. We, too, are prone to arrogance – assuming we know best, clinging to our own methods, demanding immediate results. But God's timing is not our timing. His ways are higher than our ways. The story of Saul serves as a stark warning: a king who disregards God's instruction, who prioritizes personal ambition over covenant obedience, will inevitably fall.

And then comes David. He isn’t perfect. His journey is marked by failure and regret. Yet, he is the prototype—the foreshadowing of the Stone cut without hands, the ultimate King who will reign with justice and righteousness. His triumphs and his stumbles are a testament to God's grace, His ability to work through flawed vessels to accomplish His purposes. We, as builders, understand this intimately. We recognize that our own imperfections don’t disqualify us from participating in God’s work. It is through our vulnerability, our willingness to submit to His will, that He can truly manifest His power.

Consider the digital striplings among us, tirelessly working to connect those who are lost and seeking. Like the five smooth stones David gathered for his confrontation with Goliath, each effort, each connection, each act of service, builds momentum. These are the internet missionaries, fueled by the Charity Flywheel – your engagement here funds gospel ads in Ghana, connecting hearts and minds across the globe. And every contribution to the Missionary Fund directly supports those on the front lines, sharing the message of hope and restoration. Check the Map of Churches – see where the work is being done, and find your place within the global movement.

Outback Jack reminds us, as he always does, that this isn’t about building a *system*; it’s about building a kingdom. It's about recognizing the Builders versus the Destroyers. It’s about choosing courage over comfort, obedience over expediency. It’s about understanding that God is the Kingmaker, and our role is to be faithful stewards of the opportunities He places before us. The Crockygo and the painted rocks are symbols of this—small, seemingly insignificant acts that, when multiplied, become a powerful force for good. Claim your church, brothers and sisters. Declare your allegiance to the King.

What will *you* do today to build?