Why We Want God’s Help But Not His Rule
My new book, Hope Reset, is a Christian historical fiction/fantasy novel that follows the legendary advisor Merlin as he embarks on an extraordinary journey through time alongside Jesus. In this story, Jesus guides Merlin through the life of David—the shepherd-warrior who became Israel's greatest king—to prepare him with the wisdom he'll need when he returns to Camelot to help Arthur become the king he's destined to be.
In one particularly powerful scene, Merlin witnesses young David serving under King Saul, who was, frankly, a wreck. Saul was plagued by deep paranoia and violent, unpredictable rages. David, renowned for his skill with the harp, would often play music that brought peace to the king's troubled mind. David had also saved Israel by defeating the giant Goliath.
But even though David was loyal and provided the king with both peace and protection, Saul's jealousy over David's popularity curdled into a murderous rage.
The Poison of Jealousy
Jealousy is such a subtle enemy, isn’t it? It usually starts small—a quick comparison, a little resentment over someone else's success—and before you know it, it's poisoning your entire outlook.
We see this destructive process clearly in King Saul's life . The moment the people began praising David’s victories above the king's, Saul’s jealousy was ignited . This wasn’t just a passing irritation; the pride in his heart poisoned him, leading to violent paranoia and destructive schemes against David . Saul had everything—power, a crown, an army—but the poison of comparison destroyed his inner peace and corrupted his leadership.
Rejection or Divine Mercy?
Rejection hurts. Whether it's a professional setback, getting passed over for a job, or experiencing a personal falling-out, rejection often feels like a painful loss or a massive failure . Our first reaction is usually anger, sadness, or frustration.
David experienced a powerful rejection from the Philistine lords when they publicly refused to let him accompany them into battle . At the time, David probably felt humiliated. But later, after the tragic burning of Ziklag, David realized that rejection had been God's perfect protection . If he had been allowed to go to the battlefield with the Philistines, he would have been far away when his own family and community were raided and captured.
Humility in Waiting
Waiting is tough, especially when you know you are meant for something bigger. Maybe you know deep down you have the skills, the calling, or the destiny for a major purpose, but you are stuck right now serving in a role that feels too small, or maybe even humiliating .
David faced this exact challenge. The sources remind us that he knew he was God's anointed—he was destined to be king. Yet, instead of rushing out to seize the throne or start a revolution, he chose to serve King Saul humbly . He served both in the army and in the court, trusting completely in God’s timing . He didn't see his current position as beneath him; he saw it as necessary preparation.
Bearing Burdens: Understanding the Galatians Paradox
Have you ever come across two verses in the Bible that seem to contradict each other and thought, "Wait a minute! What's going on here?" I certainly have! One such apparent contradiction appears in Galatians, where Paul seemingly gives us opposing instructions about burdens.
In Galatians 6:2, Paul tells us, "Bear ye one another's burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ."
But just three verses later in Galatians 6:5, he states, "For every man shall bear his own burden."
So which is it, Paul? Are we supposed to help others with their burdens or let everyone carry their own? Is this a biblical blooper, or is there something deeper at play?
The answer lies in the original Greek text. When Paul wrote these passages, he used two different words for "burden," each with its own distinct meaning.