Beyond the Weekend: EPIC
Stories of Trust, Failure and Faith That Point to Jesus
What does it look like to believe God, not just believe in God? This fall, we're diving into the raw, unfiltered stories of biblical heroes who wrestled with doubt, took dangerous detours, and discovered that trusting God means following him even when you can't see the outcome. Their epic journeys of trust, failure and faith all point to the ultimate hero—Jesus.
Key Messaging Points:
- There's a difference between believing in God and believing God
- God speaks in life's detours and disruptions
- Wrestling with God transforms us
- Trusting God means obeying before you see the outcome
- Every story of human struggle points to Jesus
Faithful in Listening
Read: 1 Samuel 3 Listen: 1 Samuel 3
The LORD came and stood there, calling as at the other times, “Samuel! Samuel!” Then Samuel said, “Speak, for your servant is listening.” 1 Samuel 3:10
Young Samuel hears his name called in the darkness. His mother, Hannah, had prayed earnestly for a child, vowing to offer that child back to the Lord. She later takes young Samuel to the tabernacle, where he grows up serving the Lord. God first speaks to Samuel as a child and reveals himself through his words. God begins a special relationship with Samuel that continues throughout his life. Samuel’s lifelong posture becomes listening to God as his servant. Samuel becomes a bridge from the dark era of the judges into Israel’s monarchy, anointing the nation’s first two kings.
We are also responsible for listening to God, even when we find it difficult. Samuel had a unique relationship with the Lord, hearing his voice directly. We have God’s Word and the Holy Spirit dwelling in all who believe in Jesus. Samuel’s prayer is a helpful model as we approach the Bible each day, enter a weekend service or face uncertain and challenging situations. We can be sure that God will give us what we need from his Word and through his Spirit. We may not get an answer right away, but time spent in God’s Word today may serve us tomorrow or down the road. God brings Scripture to mind when we need it.
TODAY: Let Samuel’s prayer become a part of your rhythm this week. As you open God’s Word, as you walk into church this weekend and as you enter challenging or uncertain moments, pause and pray: “Speak, for your servant is listening.”
