The Heart of a Man God Uses (1 Samuel 18:1-30) - 3/15/26

Introduction

• David’s victory over Goliath begins shaping the future of Saul’s kingdom.

• The chapter reveals the hearts of three leaders.

• Our hearts reveal who we truly are and the direction of our lives.
  

Jonathan — A Humble Heart – vv.1–5

• Son of the king with influence and prestige.

• His soul is knit to David — v.1

• He makes a covenant with David — v.3

• He gives David his robe and armor — v.4

• Jonathan sees God’s hand on David and joins God’s work.

Jonathan is a leader who is right with God. Humble, Open to God’s Working, Servant’s heart. Sees God and work and joins Him.

Saul — A Jealous Heart – vv.6–13a

• The people celebrate David’s victory — v.7

• Saul becomes angry and jealous — v.8

• Saul watches David with suspicion — v.9

• Saul attempts to kill David — vv.10–11

• Saul fears David because the LORD is with him — v.12

• Saul removes David from his presence — v.13a

Saul is a leader who is NOT walking… seeking after God. He is prideful, paranoid, jealous, and murderous. Notice the progression of Saul.

He shows no sensitivity to the workings of God (Cannot determine God’s will and purpose).

David — A Faithful Heart -vv.13b–30

• David is placed over the army and leads well — v.13b

• David succeeds because the LORD is with him — v.14

• Saul fears him, but the people love him — vv.15–16

• David responds humbly — vv.17–18

• David remains steady and faithful — vv.19–23

• David acts courageously — vv.24–27

• David continues acting wisely — vv.28–30

Walks humbly with the Lord, serves faithfully where he is placed, and lives wisely because the Lord is with him.

The What Now

• Walk humbly — trust God’s timing.

• Remain faithful — serve the Lord steadily.

• Live wisely — let your life reflect the Lord’s presence.