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Psalm 20

(Responsive)

¹ May the Lord answer you when you are in distress; may the name of the God of Jacob protect you.

² May he send you help from the sanctuary and grant you support from Zion.

³ May he remember all your sacrifices and accept your burnt offerings.

⁴ May he give you the desire of your heart and make all your plans succeed.

⁵ May we shout for joy over your victory and lift up our banners in the name of our God.

May the Lord grant all your requests.

⁶ Now this I know: The Lord gives victory to his anointed. He answers him from his heavenly sanctuary with the victorious power of his right hand.

⁷ Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name of the Lord our God.

⁸ They are brought to their knees and fall, but we rise up and stand firm.

⁹ Lord, give victory to the king! Answer us when we call! Amen.

Prayer of Praise:

Heavenly Father, We come before You with hearts full of praise and gratitude for Your unwavering love and sovereign grace. We praise You for Your wisdom and Your ability to see beyond our outward appearances and into our hearts, just as You saw the potential in David and anointed him as king.

Father, we praise You for the gift of faith. We rejoice that we can live by faith and not by sight, trusting in Your promises and Your perfect timing. Thank You for the confidence we have in You, knowing that even while we are at home in the body, we are away from the Lord, yet Your Spirit is always with us, guiding and comforting us.

Lord, we are grateful that Christ’s love compels us and that through His death and resurrection, we no longer live for ourselves but for Him who died and was raised again. We praise You for this incredible gift of salvation and the call to live lives that honor and glorify Your name.

We lift up Your holy name, thanking You for Your unending mercy, Your faithful presence, and the assurance that we are always in Your care. May our lives be a continual offering of praise to You, reflecting the new creation You have made us to be.

In Jesus’ mighty name, we pray. Amen.

You are invited to listen to, or join in singing a medley of 3 songs:  

SIS 142 FROM THE RISING OF THE SUN

SIS 46 SURELY GOODNESS AND MERCY (chorus only)

SIS 152   LORD YOU CAUSE MY HEART TO LAUGH

Prayer of Confession:

(Responsive)

Heavenly Father, We come before You with humble hearts, acknowledging our need for Your grace and mercy. As we reflect on Your Word, we are reminded of the times we have fallen short of Your calling, just as Saul did when he failed to obey Your commands.

Lord, we confess that we often rely on our own understanding and appearances, rather than seeking Your will and trusting Your wisdom. Forgive us for the times we have judged by outward appearances, failing to see the heart as You do.

We confess that we have allowed the old ways of sin and disobedience to linger in our lives, rather than fully embracing the new creation You have called us to be in Christ. Forgive us for our reluctance to let go of the past and step into the new life You offer.

Lord, we acknowledge that we have not always lived by faith, but have often walked by sight, placing our trust in the tangible and the seen rather than in Your promises. Forgive us for our lack of faith and our hesitation to live fully for You.

Father, we are sorry for the times we have not made it our goal to please You, but have sought to please ourselves or others. We confess our selfishness and our failure to live in a manner worthy of the calling we have received.

Help us, Lord, to be renewed by Your Spirit. Teach us to live by faith and not by sight, to seek Your approval above all else, and to walk in the newness of life that You have granted us through the sacrifice of Your Son, Jesus Christ.

Create in us clean hearts, O God, and renew right spirits within us. May we be like David, chosen and anointed for Your purposes, and may Your love compel us to live no longer for ourselves but for Him who died for us and was raised again.

In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

Assurance of Forgiveness:   

Brothers and sisters in Christ, Hear the good news: Our God is a God of mercy, grace, and new beginnings. Just as God chose David, a shepherd boy, to become a king, He chooses us and sees beyond our failures and shortcomings to our potential and purpose in Him.

Hear then Christ’s word of grace to us,

‘Your sins are forgiven’.

Thanks be to God.

Prayer of illumination: 

O God our Father, renew our spirits and draw our hearts to thyself, that our work may not be to us a burden but a delight, and give us such love to thee as may sweeten all our obedience.  Help us that we may serve thee with the cheerfulness and gladness of children, delighting ourselves in thee and rejoicing in all that is to the honor of thy name, through Jesus Chist our Lord, Amen

1^st Readings: 1 Samuel15:34-16:13 (NIV)

³⁴ Then Samuel left for Ramah, but Saul went up to his home in Gibeah of Saul. ³⁵ Until the day Samuel died, he did not go to see Saul again, though Samuel mourned for him. And the Lord regretted that he had made Saul king over Israel.

Samuel Anoints David

16 The Lord said to Samuel, “How long will you mourn for Saul, since I have rejected him as king over Israel? Fill your horn with oil and be on your way; I am sending you to Jesse of Bethlehem. I have chosen one of his sons to be king.”

² But Samuel said, “How can I go? If Saul hears about it, he will kill me.”

The Lord said, “Take a heifer with you and say, ‘I have come to sacrifice to the Lord.’ ³ Invite Jesse to the sacrifice, and I will show you what to do. You are to anoint for me the one I indicate.”

⁴ Samuel did what the Lord said. When he arrived at Bethlehem, the elders of the town trembled when they met him. They asked, “Do you come in peace?”

⁵ Samuel replied, “Yes, in peace; I have come to sacrifice to the Lord. Consecrate yourselves and come to the sacrifice with me.” Then he consecrated Jesse and his sons and invited them to the sacrifice.

⁶ When they arrived, Samuel saw Eliab and thought, “Surely the Lord’s anointed stands here before the Lord.”

⁷ But the Lord said to Samuel, “Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The Lord does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.”

⁸ Then Jesse called Abinadab and had him pass in front of Samuel. But Samuel said, “The Lord has not chosen this one either.” ⁹ Jesse then had Shammah pass by, but Samuel said, “Nor has the Lord chosen this one.” ¹⁰ Jesse had seven of his sons pass before Samuel, but Samuel said to him, “The Lord has not chosen these.” ¹¹ So he asked Jesse, “Are these all the sons you have?”

“There is still the youngest,” Jesse answered. “He is tending the sheep.”

Samuel said, “Send for him; we will not sit down until he arrives.”

¹² So he sent for him and had him brought in. He was glowing with health and had a fine appearance and handsome features.

Then the Lord said, “Rise and anoint him; this is the one.”

¹³ So Samuel took the horn of oil and anointed him in the presence of his brothers, and from that day on the Spirit of the Lord came powerfully upon David. Samuel then went to Ramah.

This is the Word of God

Praise to you Almighty God.

2^nd Reading: 2 Corinthians 5:6-17 (NIV)

⁶ Therefore we are always confident and know that as long as we are at home in the body we are away from the Lord. ⁷ For we live by faith, not by sight. ⁸ We are confident, I say, and would prefer to be away from the body and at home with the Lord. ⁹ So we make it our goal to please him, whether we are at home in the body or away from it. ¹⁰ For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, so that each of us may receive what is due us for the things done while in the body, whether good or bad.

The Ministry of Reconciliation

¹¹ Since, then, we know what it is to fear the Lord, we try to persuade others. What we are is plain to God, and I hope it is also plain to your conscience. ¹² We are not trying to commend ourselves to you again, but are giving you an opportunity to take pride in us, so that you can answer those who take pride in what is seen rather than in what is in the heart. ¹³ If we are “out of our mind,” as some say, it is for God; if we are in our right mind, it is for you. ¹⁴ For Christ’s love compels us, because we are convinced that one died for all, and therefore all died. ¹⁵ And he died for all, that those who live should no longer live for themselves but for him who died for them and was raised again.

¹⁶ So from now on we regard no one from a worldly point of view. Though we once regarded Christ in this way, we do so no longer. ¹⁷ Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!

This is the Word of our Lord

Praise to you Lord Jesus Christ.

You are invited to listen to, or join in singing  TiS 745 ‘Seek ye first the Kingdom of God’

Sermon: ‘Live By Faith, Not By Sight’

Pray: Loving God, open our hearts, mind and soul as we listen to your words, amen.

Both the reading from 1 Samuel 15:34-16:13 and 2 Corinthians 5:6-17 explore themes of divine choice, transformation, and the new beginnings that come from God’s intervention. By examining these passages together, we can see a profound connection in how they highlight the necessity of aligning with God’s will, the rejection of old ways, and the embrace of new, divinely ordained realities.

The Divine Choice and Transformation in 1 Samuel 15:34-16:13:

Rejection of Saul and Anointing of David: This passage recounts the transition from Saul to David as God’s chosen king. Despite Saul’s outward qualifications, his disobedience leads to his rejection. David, an unexpected choice, is anointed because of his heart, signifying a divine choice that prioritizes internal character over external appearance, and

New Beginnings: David’s anointing marks a new beginning for Israel. The Spirit of the Lord comes powerfully upon him, symbolizing God’s empowerment and the start of a transformative journey.

The Divine Choice and Transformation in 2 Corinthians 5:6-17:

Living by Faith, Not by Sight: Paul speaks of the confidence and transformation that comes from living by faith. Just as David was chosen for his heart, believers are called to view life and others from a spiritual perspective, recognizing the profound change that comes from being in Christ, and

New Creation: Paul emphasizes that in Christ, believers are a new creation. The old ways of living are gone, and a new, divinely inspired life begins. This transformation aligns with God’s will and purpose, mirroring the fresh start seen in David’s anointing.

Rejection of the Old and Embrace of the New in 1 Samuel 15:34-16:13:

End of Saul’s Reign: Saul’s rejection represents the end of an era marked by disobedience. God instructs Samuel to move forward and anoint David, signifying a shift from old failures to new potential, and

God’s Perspective: The focus on David’s heart over his appearance parallels Paul’s message in 2 Corinthians, about not regarding anyone from a worldly point of view. God’s perspective prioritizes inner qualities and divine purpose over outward appearances.

Rejection of the Old and Embrace of the New in 2 Corinthians 5:6-17:

Old Gone, New Here: Paul’s declaration that the old has gone and the new is here echoes the transition from Saul to David. In both cases, God’s intervention brings about a significant shift, leaving behind what was ineffective or sinful and ushering in a new, hopeful era.

Living for Christ: Just as David’s anointing sets him apart for God’s service, believers are called to live for Christ, embracing a life that reflects their new creation status. This involves a complete reorientation of life towards God’s purposes.

Let’s apply this to the Believers by;

1^st Divine Purpose and Calling: Both readings emphasize that God’s choice and calling are based on His divine purposes. Believers are reminded that their worth and calling come from God’s perspective, which values the heart and inner transformation.

2^nd Transformation and New Life: The anointing of David and the concept of the new creation in Christ both highlight the transformative power of God’s work. Believers are called to embrace this transformation, leaving behind old ways and stepping into the new life God has prepared, and

3^rd Faith and Obedience: Living by faith, as Paul describes, aligns with the obedience that David’s anointing represents. Believers are encouraged to trust in God’s plans and purposes, even when they defy human expectations or conventional wisdom.

In conclusion, both readings are connection, lies in their shared themes of divine choice, transformation, and new beginnings. Both passages call believers (you and I) to recognize God’s sovereignty in choosing and empowering individuals, according to His purposes, to embrace the new life offered through divine intervention, and to live by faith, prioritizing God’s perspective over human judgment. By understanding these connections, believers can find encouragement and guidance in their own journeys of faith and transformation. Bottom of Form

In the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit, Amen.

Let us pray: O God our Father, renew our spirits a                                                    nd draw our hearts to thyself, that our work may not be to us a burden but a delight, and give us such love to thee as may sweeten all our obedience.  Help us that we may serve thee with the cheerfulness and gladness of children, delighting ourselves in thee and rejoicing in all that is to the honor of thy name, through Jesus Christ our Lord, Amen.

You are invited to listen to, or join in singing TiS 459 ‘In Christ there is no East or West’

Offering

Offering Prayer

“For the life that you have given”  TiS774 

[This hymn is being sung to the tune Austria – there is no introduction.]

[This YouTube is for another hymn so disregard the words – only the one verse is needed.]

For the life that you have given,

For the love in Christ made known,

With these fruits of time and labour,

With these gifts that are your own:

Here we offer, Lord, our praises;

Heart and mind and strength we bring;

Give us grace to love and serve you,

Living what we pray and sing.

Ralph Vaughan Williams

Prayers for Others:

(Responsive)

Heavenly Father, We lift up those in positions of leadership and authority. Just as You chose David, a man after Your own heart, we ask that You grant wisdom, discernment, and integrity to our leaders. Help them to lead with humility and a heart that seeks to honor You above all.

May they live by faith, not by sight, trusting in Your guidance and making decisions that reflect Your will. Empower them to lead with righteousness and justice, and may their leadership bring peace, prosperity, and well-being to those they serve.

Gracious Lord, We pray for those who are seeking direction in their lives. Just as Samuel was guided by You to anoint David, we ask that You provide clarity and guidance to those who are uncertain about their path. Help them to trust in Your timing and Your plans, knowing that You see beyond appearances and understand their true potential.

May they live by faith, trusting that You are leading them to the place where they can best serve and glorify You. Strengthen their hearts and give them the courage to follow Your calling.

Loving God, We pray for those undergoing transformation and change. As Paul reminds us, if anyone is in Christ, they are a new creation; the old has gone, the new is here. We ask that You support and uplift those who are embracing new beginnings and seeking to live out their faith in fresh and dynamic ways.

Help them to let go of past mistakes and failures, and to fully embrace the new life You have given them. Fill them with Your Spirit, that they may live confidently and joyfully in Your love.

Merciful Father, We pray for our church community and the broader body of Christ. Just as You called David and transformed his life, we ask that You continue to call and transform us as Your people. Help us to live by faith and not by sight, to seek to please You in all that we do, and to support one another in our journeys of faith.

May our community reflect the new creation we are in Christ, showing love, compassion, and integrity in all our interactions. Empower us to be a light in the world, drawing others to Your grace and truth.

Compassionate God, We pray for those who are struggling with their faith. Just as You assured Samuel and Paul of Your presence and guidance, we ask that You comfort and strengthen those who are facing doubts and uncertainties. Help them to see beyond their current struggles and to trust in Your unfailing love and promises.

May they experience a renewed sense of Your presence, and may their faith be deepened as they walk through their challenges. Surround them with Your peace and give them the assurance that they are never alone.

In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

The Lord’s Prayer

Our Father in Heaven, hallowed be your name,

your kingdom come,

your will be done, on Earth as it is in Heaven.

Give us today our daily bread.

Forgive us our sins, as we forgive those who sin against us.

Save us from the time of trial and deliver us from evil,

For the Kingdom, the power, and the glory are yours,

Now and forever.  Amen.

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You are invited to listen to, or join in singing  TiS 154 ‘Great is your faithfulness, O God my Father’

                                                     

Sending forth:

Brothers and sisters in Christ, As we go forth from this place, let us carry with us the lessons and truths we have encountered in God’s Word. Remember that, just as God chose David, He sees beyond our outward appearances and understands our hearts. He calls us to live by faith, not by sight, trusting in His guidance and purposes for our lives. Embrace the new creation that you are in Christ. Let go of the old ways of sin and disobedience, and step into the new life that God has prepared for you. Live with the confidence that comes from knowing you are reconciled to God through Jesus Christ, and make it your goal to please Him in all that you do. Amen

Benediction:

May the love of Christ compel you to live not for yourselves, but for Him who died and was raised again. Go forth with hearts full of faith, eyes fixed on the eternal, and lives that reflect the transforming power of God’s grace. As you leave, may the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. May the Spirit of the Lord rest upon you, guiding your steps and empowering you to fulfill the calling He has placed on your life. Go in peace, to love and serve the Lord. In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

You are invited to listen to, or join in singing the Benediction Song :

TIS 609 MAY THE MIND OF CHRIST MY SAVIOUR