Lesson
Engaging Introduction
Hello, boys and girls! Today, we’re going to explore an exciting and important story from the Bible found in 2 Samuel 16. Before we delve into the story, let’s imagine something together. Imagine you’re running a race with your friends. You’re trying your best, and suddenly, someone you look up to starts cheering you on. It feels great, doesn’t it? Now, imagine someone else starts throwing pebbles at you and shouting unkind words. How would that make you feel? A bit sad or maybe even upset, right?
In today’s story, we’re going to see that King David, one of the great heroes from the Bible, found himself in a situation somewhat like this. He was going through a tough time, and instead of receiving help and support, he faced people who weren’t very kind. But there’s a lesson in everything, and together, we’ll discover what God wants to teach us through King David’s experience. We’ll talk about being fair, showing kindness, and understanding the importance of listening to God.
As we unwrap this fascinating tale, think about the choices David had, how he handled those who weren’t kind, and what that means for us today. By the end of our lesson, you’ll see how God works through difficult situations and how He can help us be kind and patient, even when things don’t go our way. Are we ready to dive in? Let’s get started!
Main Teaching Points
Point 1: David’s Journey and Encounter with Ziba
Our story in 2 Samuel 16 begins with King David on a difficult journey. David was leaving Jerusalem because his son Absalom had turned against him. As David was going through the wilderness, he met a man named Ziba. Ziba was a servant of Mephibosheth, who was Jonathan’s son and Saul’s grandson.
Ziba brought donkeys loaded with food and drink for David and his men. This seemed like a kind gesture, right? He then told David that Mephibosheth had betrayed him and was hoping to become king. David believed Ziba and gave him all of Mephibosheth’s land. This part of the story teaches us an important lesson about listening and fairness. Just like in school, sometimes we hear one side of a story, but it’s crucial to check all the facts before making a decision.
Point 2: Shimei’s Anger and David’s Patience
Next, as David continues his journey, he meets Shimei, a man from Saul’s family. Shimei wasn’t kind to David at all. He threw stones and dirt at David and his men, and he shouted mean things, blaming David for everything that happened to Saul’s family.
Now, many of us might feel angry or want to shout back if someone treated us like that. But what did David do? He showed patience. David told his men not to harm Shimei, saying maybe God was telling Shimei to curse him. David trusted God, even though things were tough, believing that if he stayed patient, God would eventually make things right. David’s response encourages us to be patient and kind, even when others are not nice to us.
Point 3: Trusting God Through Difficult Times
Throughout 2 Samuel 16, David demonstrated an overwhelming trust in God. He was in a challenging situation—his son was against him, people he thought were friends were turning away, and others were openly hostile. Yet, David didn’t give up. He didn’t lose hope or faith, even for a second. He knew that God was with him and that God had a plan.
This part of the story is a reminder that God can turn difficult situations around. We see that David didn’t rely on his own strength but chose to rely on God’s plan instead. It’s kind of like trusting your teacher to help guide you through a difficult homework problem. You might not understand it at first, but you believe they have the tools and knowledge to help you.
Personal Application for Elementary Students
Now let’s think about what this all means for us. We all go through difficult times or meet people who aren’t nice to us. Maybe it’s a friend at school who says something hurtful, or perhaps you feel a bit left out during recess. It doesn’t feel very good, does it? But, just like David, we can choose how to respond.
Instead of getting upset or being unkind back, we can show kindness and patience. Imagine if someone is rude to you in class. Instead of saying something mean back, you could choose to smile and ask them if they’re okay. Maybe they’re having a tough day, and your smile could make all the difference.
And remember, God is with you through everything. Even if things seem tough, like a big math test that you’re worried about, trust that God can help you. You can pray and ask Him for help or talk to a teacher or a parent. They can give you the tools or the comfort you need to make it through.
In the same way God was with David, He is with us every step of the way. His love and strength can help us be better friends, kinder classmates, and people who spread light and positivity just like David tried to do. And by learning to show God’s love, others can see how great it is to trust in Him.
Interactive Discussion Questions with Explanation and Teaching Guidance
1. Why do you think David listened to Ziba and not check with Mephibosheth?
Encourage the children to think about why it’s important to hear the whole story. Explain that sometimes, we may jump to conclusions without all the facts. Using a friendship bracelet as an example, ask them if they’d give it away just because someone said their friend didn’t like it anymore, without talking to their friend first.
2. How would you have felt if someone, like Shimei, threw stones at you and said mean things? How did David’s patience show us a different response?
Let the students share their feelings. This is a good time to highlight how important it is to manage our feelings and thoughts. Explain that David didn’t let his anger decide for him; instead, he chose to be kind and patient. We can do the same by counting to ten before responding.
3. Can you think of a time when things didn’t go your way, but you remembered to trust God? How did things turn out?
Invite the children to share a personal story where they trusted God. It could be something simple, like losing a game but feeling okay in the end. Explain that God’s love is like a reassuring hug that helps us in hard times. Reinforce the idea that God’s plans, though difficult at times, aim for our good.
In conclusion, emphasize that the story of David in 2 Samuel 16 reveals lessons of patience, kindness, and the importance of trust. With God’s help, we can make choices that shine His light into the world around us, turning difficult situations into opportunities to grow and show love.
Games
Game 1: “Escape from Jerusalem”
Objective: Help King David navigate through challenges and safely leave Jerusalem, understanding the trials he faced.
Number of Players: 4-6
Materials Needed:
– A large sheet of paper or a whiteboard for the map of Jerusalem
– Small markers to represent each player (e.g., buttons, coins)
– Question cards (10 cards with questions related to 2 Samuel 16)
– A die
Setup:
1. Draw a simple map representing Jerusalem with a path winding from the starting point to the endpoint representing David’s journey.
2. Place the players’ markers at the start position.
3. Shuffle and place the question cards face down near the map.
Instructions:
1. Players take turns to roll the die and move their marker the corresponding number of spaces.
2. When a player lands on a space with a star, they pick a question card and answer it. The questions should be about the events and characters in 2 Samuel 16 (e.g., “Who cursed David as he fled?”).
3. If they answer correctly, they stay. If not, go back one space.
4. The first player to reach the endpoint wins.
Lesson Reinforcement: This game encourages students to recall details about David’s escape, the people he encountered, and the challenges he faced, allowing them to empathize with his journey.
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Game 2: “Character Match-Up”
Objective: Identify key characters and their roles in the story of 2 Samuel 16.
Number of Players: 3-5
Materials Needed:
– Character cards with names and roles (e.g., “David”, “Shimei”, “Ziba”, “Absalom”)
– Role cards with a brief description related to each character
Setup:
1. Spread out the character cards face up on a table.
2. Shuffle the role cards and place them in a stack face down.
Instructions:
1. Players take turns drawing a role card.
2. The player reads the role out loud (e.g., “Cursed King David as he left Jerusalem”).
3. The player must match the role to the correct character card.
4. If correct, they keep the role card. If incorrect, place it back at the bottom of the stack.
5. Continue until all role cards are matched. The player with the most cards wins.
Lesson Reinforcement: This game helps students remember the characters in the chapter and their actions, reinforcing their understanding of the story dynamics.
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Game 3: “Act It Out”
Objective: Express and understand emotions and reactions of characters through role-play.
Number of Players: 5-7
Materials Needed:
– Small slips of paper with different scenarios from 2 Samuel 16 written on them (e.g., “Shimei cursing David”, “Ziba bringing supplies”)
Setup:
1. Fold the scenario slips and place them in a bowl.
2. Arrange chairs in a semi-circle to create a small “stage” area.
Instructions:
1. Players take turns picking a slip and reading it silently.
2. Without using words, the player must act out the scenario in front of the group.
3. Other players guess which scene is being portrayed.
4. The first player to guess correctly gets to pick the next slip and act.
5. Continue until all scenarios have been acted out.
Lesson Reinforcement: By acting and guessing, students internalize the story’s emotions and dynamics, gaining a deeper understanding of the historical context and character motivations.
Takehome
Take-Home Assignment: Reflecting on 2 Samuel 16
Objective:
To understand the events and characters of 2 Samuel 16, highlighting the themes of respect, loyalty, and consequences of actions.
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Activity 1: Story Summary
With the help of a family member, read and summarize the key events of 2 Samuel 16. Once you have a good understanding, answer these questions:
– Who are the main characters in this chapter?
– What important event happens to King David in 2 Samuel 16?
– What do you think is the message or lesson from this chapter?
Activity 2: Character Traits
Choose two characters from 2 Samuel 16. With a family member, discuss and write down three traits for each character. Think about how these traits affected their actions and decisions in the story.
Characters to consider:
– King David
– Ziba
– Shimei
Activity 3: Draw a Scene
Pick your favorite scene from 2 Samuel 16 and either draw or create a comic strip about that scene. Be sure to include speech bubbles to show what the characters are saying. Share your drawing with a family member and explain why you chose this scene.
Activity 4: Family Discussion
With your family, discuss the theme of respect shown in the story. Consider these questions:
– How did King David show respect or deal with disrespect in this chapter?
– Why is it important to show respect to others, even when they are not nice to us?
Activity 5: Respect and Loyalty Journal
Write a short paragraph in your journal about a time when you were either respectful or showed loyalty to a friend or family member. How did it make you and the other person feel?
Conclusion:
After completing the activities, talk with your family about how the lessons from 2 Samuel 16 can be applied to everyday life. What can you do to show respect and kindness, just like David did?
Remember, understanding these stories helps us learn valuable life lessons!
Visuals
Slide 1: Introductory Slide
– Visual/Diagram: A simple map of ancient Israel highlighting cities such as Jerusalem, with a small icon for King David.
– Caption: “The Journey of King David – Ancient Israel”
– Description: Use an age-appropriate and colorful map to show the geographical context of 2 Samuel 16. Highlight where the events are taking place.
Slide 2: King David Flees Jerusalem
– Visual/Diagram: Illustration of King David and his entourage leaving a city gate.
– Caption: “King David Leaves Jerusalem”
– Description: Show King David looking thoughtful, with a few followers, leaving the city, with children waving goodbye. Focus on simple, expressive faces to convey emotion.
Slide 3: Ziba and the Donkeys
– Visual/Diagram: A picture of Ziba presenting donkeys with supplies to King David.
– Caption: “Ziba Brings Supplies to David”
– Description: Show Ziba leading donkeys carrying loads of food, with David looking surprised and grateful. Label the supplies like bread and raisins.
Slide 4: Shimei Throws Stones
– Visual/Diagram: Animated scene of Shimei throwing stones from a hill, with David’s men looking protective.
– Caption: “Shimei Curses and Throws Stones”
– Description: Use a cartoon style where Shimei on a hilltop is throwing small stones, with a protective soldier shielding King David.
Slide 5: Abishai Wants to Respond
– Visual/Diagram: Abishai gesturing angrily towards Shimei, with David calming him down.
– Caption: “Abishai’s Anger, David’s Mercy”
– Description: Illustrate Abishai with a clenched fist and angry expression, contrasted by a calm and gesturing David saying no.
Slide 6: Key Lesson – Responding with Kindness
– Visual/Diagram: Drawing of a heart and a broken heart being mended.
– Caption: “Responding with Kindness, Not Anger”
– Description: Demonstrate the moral lesson with symbolically repairing a broken heart, using band-aids or sewing them together.
Slide 7: Conclusion – God’s Plan
– Visual/Diagram: A path with footprints leading towards a sunrise.
– Caption: “Trusting in God’s Plan”
– Description: Highlight the idea of trusting in a higher plan with a simple, hopeful image of footprints leading towards light.
Utilize bright colors and simple shapes to convey emotions and maintain engagement for young students. Include speech bubbles or labels for clarity.
Memory Verse
Key Bible Verse:
2 Samuel 16:12 (NIV)
“It may be that the Lord will look upon my misery and restore to me his covenant blessing instead of his curse today.”
Creative Ways to Memorize:
1. Rhyme Time:
Create a simple rhyme with the verse to help kids remember it. For example:
“The Lord will see my tears,
And take away my fears.
He’ll bless me every day,
And chase the curse away.”
2. Hand Motions:
– “The Lord” – Point upwards.
– “Look upon my misery” – Place hands over eyes like binoculars.
– “Restore to me” – Pretend to give and receive a gift.
– “His covenant blessing” – Cross hands over heart.
– “Instead of his curse” – Shake head and wave hands in a “no” motion.
– “Today” – Point to the ground.
3. Song Tune:
Set the verse to the tune of a familiar nursery rhyme like “Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star”. Use simple words and actions to make it engaging.
4. Memory Challenge:
Split the verse into two parts and see who can remember it first when you mix the words up. Use flashcards where each card has one word of the verse. Work in pairs and see which team can put all cards in the correct order the fastest.
5. Act it Out:
Have them act out a short skit where they pretend to be someone who is sad and how receiving a blessing from a friend makes them feel. Discuss how God wants to bless them and help them through tough times.
These activities help elementary students engage with the scripture and understand its message in a fun and memorable way.
Group Activity
Activity 1: Story Drama
Objective: Understand the events of 2 Samuel 16 through role play.
Instructions:
1. Divide the students into small groups of 4-5.
2. Assign each group a different scene from 2 Samuel 16 to act out (e.g., Scene 1: David and Ziba, Scene 2: Shimei Curses David, Scene 3: Absalom and Ahithophel).
3. Provide a short script or guide for each scene. Encourage creativity and interpretation.
Roles:
– Narrator: Provides context for each scene and explains actions.
– David: Portrays King David.
– Ziba, Shimei, Absalom, or Ahithophel: Other characters as per the scene assigned.
– Director: Ensures the group communicates and decides on character movements.
Discussion Prompts:
– What happened in your scene?
– How did the characters feel?
– Why do you think they acted that way?
Participation:
Every student plays either a character or the narrator. After acting, the group discusses the prompts together.
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Activity 2: Picture Sequencing
Objective: Comprehend the sequence of events in 2 Samuel 16.
Instructions:
1. Provide each group with a set of mixed-up images depicting key events from the chapter.
2. Ask them to work together to put the images in the correct order based on the story.
Roles:
– Organizer: Ensures everyone has turns discussing where images belong.
– Presenter: Explains the group’s sequence choice to others.
– Illustrator: Draws an additional scene they think is important.
Discussion Prompts:
– Why did you arrange the pictures in this order?
– What event do you find most important and why?
– How does each event connect to the next?
Participation:
Each student contributes to the discussion about the order of images. The illustrator shares their drawing and its significance.
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Activity 3: Feelings and Reactions Circle
Objective: Explore characters’ emotions and decisions in 2 Samuel 16.
Instructions:
1. Form small circles of 5-6 students.
2. Use emotion cards (happy, sad, angry, confused, etc.) for each character in the story.
3. Discuss each character’s feelings at different points in the chapter.
Roles:
– Reader: Reads selected passages or summaries of events aloud.
– Facilitator: Guides the discussion and ensures everyone shares.
– Card Holder: Distributes and collects emotion cards as needed.
Discussion Prompts:
– How do you think David felt when Shimei cursed him?
– What would you do if you were in Ziba’s position?
– How might Absalom feel towards David?
Participation:
Each student selects emotion cards from the pile and explains their choice. Everyone shares at least once about a character’s emotions.
Download PDF for Group Activity
Journaling
Guided Journaling Prompts for ‘2 Samuel 16’
1. Understanding the Story:
– Who are the main people in this chapter? Can you write a short sentence about what each of them did?
– How do you think David felt when he was treated badly by Shimei? Write down some words you think David might have felt.
2. Reflecting on Emotions:
– Have you ever felt upset or misunderstood like David did? Write about a time this happened to you and how you felt.
– How did you handle your feelings? Is there anything you would do differently next time?
3. Personal Application:
– David chose not to fight back when people were mean to him. How can you show kindness or patience when someone upsets you?
– Think about a time when you forgave someone or needed to be forgiven. Write about that experience. How did it make you feel?
4. Connecting to Daily Life:
– Who in your life supports and helps you like David was supported by his friends? Write about why they are important to you.
– What are some ways you can help a friend who might be having a tough time?
5. Prayer and Reflection:
– Write a short prayer asking God to help you be patient and forgiving like David was.
– Thank God for the people who help you and make sure to include how they have made your life better in your prayer.
6. Open-Ended Questions:
– If you were in David’s shoes, how would you have reacted to Shimei? Why?
– What lesson do you think God wants you to learn from this story?
Remember, there’s no wrong answer—just write from your heart!
Quiz
Quiz: 2 Samuel 16
Multiple Choice Questions:
1. Who brought provisions for David and his people as he fled Jerusalem?
a) Ziba
b) Absalom
c) Nathan
2. Why was Mephibosheth unable to go with David?
a) He did not want to leave
b) He had a foot injury
c) He overslept
3. What did Shimei do as David and his men passed by?
a) Greeted them kindly
b) Threw stones and cursed
c) Sang songs of praise
True/False Questions:
4. Ziba was the servant of Mephibosheth.
True / False
5. Absalom and his men showed respect to David as he left.
True / False
Short-Answer Questions:
6. How did David respond to Shimei’s actions of throwing stones and cursing?
7. What did Ziba claim about Mephibosheth’s intentions?
Answer Key:
1. a) Ziba
2. b) He had a foot injury
3. b) Threw stones and cursed
4. True
5. False
6. David chose not to punish Shimei and believed it might be part of God’s plan.
7. Ziba claimed that Mephibosheth stayed in Jerusalem, hoping to regain his grandfather’s kingdom.
Teacher Tips
Teacher Notes and Tips for Teaching “2 Samuel 16” to Elementary Students:
Objective:
To help students understand the story of King David’s experiences in 2 Samuel 16, including themes of loyalty, betrayal, and forgiveness.
Pacing Suggestions:
1. Introduction (5 minutes):
– Briefly introduce the Book of Samuel, focusing on King David.
– Explain the setting and context of the story.
2. Storytelling (10 minutes):
– Narrate the story from 2 Samuel 16 using simplified language.
– Break down the story into key events: David leaving Jerusalem, Shimei cursing David, and Ziba’s deceit.
3. Discussion (10 minutes):
– Ask questions to ensure comprehension: “Why was David leaving the city?” “What did Shimei do, and how did David react?”
– Discuss the concepts of betrayal and forgiveness in the story.
4. Activity (15 minutes):
– Create a “Story Mural” where students draw scenes from the story.
– Hold a Q&A session with children voicing David, Shimei, or Ziba.
5. Conclusion (5 minutes):
– Recap key lessons. Discuss how forgiveness and patience are important.
Explaining Difficult Concepts:
– Betrayal: Use simple scenarios like friends breaking promises to explain.
– Loyalty: Compare to being a good friend who helps even when things are tough.
– Forgiveness: Emphasize forgiving others when they hurt you or apologize. Use real-life examples.
– Cursing and Misunderstanding: Explain how sometimes people say hurtful things when they are upset and how understanding can help resolve issues.
Managing Student Engagement:
– Use props or costumes for students to act out scenes.
– Incorporate storytelling techniques, such as using different voices for characters.
– Encourage questions and curiosity by creating a safe space for discussion.
– Use multimedia, such as storybook illustrations, to maintain interest.
– Incorporate pair or group work to foster collaboration and discussion.
Tips:
– Keep the language age-appropriate; avoid complex vocabulary.
– Use repetition to help memorization.
– Be patient and ready to provide further clarifications.
– Observe student reactions and adjust the pacing accordingly.
– Celebrate diversity in responses and encourage every student to share their thoughts.
Crafts
Craft Activity: King David’s Journey Shield
Objective:
This craft will help elementary students understand and reflect on King David’s journey and the challenges he faced, as illustrated in 2 Samuel 16. By creating a decorative shield, students can express their understanding of themes such as loyalty, trust, and protection.
Materials Needed:
– Large paper or plastic plates (one per student)
– Aluminum foil
– Construction paper in various colors
– Scissors
– Glue sticks
– Markers or crayons
– Craft jewels or stickers (optional)
– Copies of shield templates (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Introduction (5 minutes):
Begin with a brief discussion about the events of 2 Samuel 16, focusing on how David faced challenges along his journey. Explain that they will make a shield to symbolize how David’s faith and leadership protected him.
2. Prepare the Shield Base (5 minutes):
Distribute the large paper or plastic plates to each student. These will serve as the base for their shield.
3. Decorate with Foil (10 minutes):
Have the students cover the front of their plates with aluminum foil, pressing it down to create a shiny surface, resembling a metal shield.
4. Design the Shield Emblem (15 minutes):
Provide construction paper and markers. Ask students to cut out shapes and symbols that represent themes from David’s life such as loyalty, leadership, or faith, and glue them onto the foil shield.
5. Add Details (10 minutes):
Let students personalize their shields with additional decorations such as craft jewels or stickers. Encourage them to choose colors and symbols that convey strength and protection.
6. Reflection and Sharing (10 minutes):
Gather the students to share their shields. Ask each student to explain the symbols they chose and how it relates to King David’s story and the virtues he exemplified.
Lesson Reinforcement:
This craft reinforces the lesson by allowing students to actively engage with the story of King David. As they create their shields, they reflect on the difficulties he faced and his reliance on faith and loyalty. The shield, a symbol of protection, serves as a tangible reminder of how David’s character provided strength and guidance along his journey.
Music
Recommended Songs and Activities for 2 Samuel 16
1. Song: “God is Our Protector”
Paraphrased Lyrics:
God is always with us, day and night,
He helps us stand up for what’s right.
Though things may seem unfair or tough,
His loving power is enough.
Suggested Actions:
– Have students stretch their arms to the sky for “day and night.”
– Stand firm with feet planted and arms out for “stand up for what’s right.”
– Cross arms over heart for “His loving power.”
Connection to the Lesson:
This song reminds students that even when David faced unfair treatment and challenges, he trusted that God was his protector just like we can today.
2. Activity: “Role-Play the Story”
Instructions:
– Assign roles to students: David, Ziba, Shimei, and other notables from the story.
– Act out the story with simple prompts, such as “David walks on the road,” “Ziba brings gifts,” “Shimei throws stones.”
Connection to the Lesson:
This gives students a chance to engage with the story actively, reinforcing the narrative of David’s challenges and God’s enduring presence.
3. Song: “The Lord is My Shepherd”
Paraphrased Lyrics:
The Lord is my shepherd, guiding me,
In pastures green and waters free.
Though the path is sometimes hard,
With Him I’ll always be on guard.
Suggested Actions:
– Use one hand to mimic a shepherd’s staff.
– Open palms upward for “pastures green and waters free.”
– March in place to signify walking the path.
Connection to the Lesson:
Connecting God’s guidance as a shepherd to David’s experience helps students understand themes of leadership and protection.
4. Craft Activity: “Build Our Trust” Bracelets
Instructions:
– Provide beads and string. Each bead color can represent a part of the lesson: trust, courage, patience.
– As they string beads, discuss how David showed these traits.
Connection to the Lesson:
It gives students a tangible reminder of the lesson—building trust in God, even when life seems unfair.
Scripture Background
Background Notes for 2 Samuel 16
Historical Context:
– Setting: This chapter is set in ancient Israel during the time of King David’s reign, roughly around 1000 BCE. It’s a part of the larger narrative of David’s life and rule.
– David’s Kingdom: At this time, King David ruled a united kingdom of Israel, which included both the northern and southern tribes. However, his reign faced challenges, including rebellion from within his own family.
Cultural Insights:
– Royal Processions and Public Appearances: Kings often traveled with an entourage, and their movements were significant events. Public demonstrations, like the ones described in the chapter, could influence politics and power.
– Hospitality and Allegiance: Offering food, shelter, or support to a king or rebel was a sign of allegiance. The characters in this chapter display where their loyalties lie through their actions.
Key Characters:
– David: The second king of Israel, known for his strong leadership but also for facing many personal challenges.
– Absalom: David’s son, who rebels against him. His attempt to take over his father’s throne is a central conflict in the story.
– Ziba and Mephibosheth: Characters linked to the house of Saul, the previous king. Their story highlights themes of loyalty and deceit.
Theological Insights:
– God’s Sovereignty: Throughout this chapter and the entire Bible, there’s an underlying belief that God is in control, regardless of human actions or political upheavals.
– Consequences of Sin: David faces challenges partly as a consequence of his own actions earlier in his life. The narrative demonstrates that sin can lead to real-world consequences.
– Forgiveness and Justice: The story allows discussion on the themes of forgiveness and justice, as we see David handling betrayal, loyalty, and his own moral decisions.
This chapter provides an opportunity to discuss the complexity of human relationships and the idea that leaders, even great ones like David, have flaws and face challenges.
Download PDF for Scripture Background
