What do you do at the moment it becomes clear that your greatest dream will never come true, of health, family, a peaceful old age? King David faced such a moment when his beloved son Absalom rose in rebellion and David had to flee Jerusalem (2 Samuel 15). This sermon shows that it is precisely then that we come to know anew our enemies, our friends and our God, and that we can say to Him: here I am, Your will be done. Listen and discover that God’s dreams for you are greater than your most painful disappointments.
Discussion questions
For your small group or for personal reflection after the sermon.
- In 2 Samuel 15:1-6 Absalom stands at the city gate every day and tells people that if he were king, things would be different. How does he win their hearts this way, and what does it reveal about his intentions toward his father?
- Why does David send the ark of God back to Jerusalem, and what do his words about letting God do with him whatever seems good reveal about his trust?
- The sermon says the moment when a dream will never become a memory is not only painful but dangerous. What is that danger, and what can turning away from God look like in such a moment?
- While his own son rebels, Ittai the Gittite, a foreigner, declares he will go with David in life or death. Who in your life proves truly close in hard times, and what does that teach you about being a friend?
- The speaker emphasized that God's plans for David were bigger than his dreams, because Jesus was born from his line. How does this perspective change the way you see your own unfulfilled dreams?
- How can you pray "Your will be done, not mine" this week about a specific disappointment you carry in your heart?
