Look Back: What did you learn by examining the technologies you use most? Are they enhancing or replacing your dependence on “Divine Intelligence”?
Look Up:
Read 1 Samuel 4:1-3
- What problem was Israel facing and where did they turn for answers?
- What did the people of Israel decide to and why? What was wrong with or missing from their decision?
Read 1 Samuel 4:3-11
- What was the Ark of the Covenant and what did its name represent? What was Israel expecting the Ark to do for them in this situation?
- What was the result of their actions and why did God allow this to happen?
Read 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 & 2:10-16
- List the different truths about God’s Holy Spirit described in these verses. Which truth is most meaningful or challenging to you right now?
- What do these verses say God’s Holy Spirit is “not”? Why is this important to remember when we search for answers to the challenges we face daily?
- How would you explain verses 15-16 to a person who has not been following Jesus? How might these verses shape your search for answers?
Overall (Discovery Bible Study)
- What do these scriptures say about God?
- What do they say about people?
- How will I apply this to my life?
Look Ahead: Where are you likely to go to AI this week when you should go to God? How will you trust God for the direction you need this week?
Notes
Human nature will easily lead us astray. Israel knew God, but failed to ask Him for guidance. They carried the ark into battle and substituted their personal relationship with God for something artificial. God loves us and works on our behalf, but He does not obey or answer to us. We must decide to engage with God on a spiritual level when it may not produce quick or comfortable answers. God did not give us a box full of His spirit - He puts His spirit into the lives of disciples of Jesus. The Holy Spirit and the Bible are the “search engines” to the thoughts of God, that we might hear and obey Him, not the opposite.
