A Phone Tree Bible Study Group ACTion Article
Reading Assignment: 2 Samuel 1:18-27
Personal Reflection ACTion Statement:
Death is an unfortunate yet inevitable part of life. When an unexpected or expected death occurs, it is natural to mourn, to grieve, to lament. Confronting the reality of loss takes time. It can look different, depending on the individual. It can be simple for some and complex for others. Bereavement is unique and highly personal. Part of the healing process associated with loss is remembrance. As challenging as it may be to consider, there is a value and a freedom that comes in remembering the good versus the not so good, when it comes to dealing with the death of those who have, perhaps, tormented us.
Bible Study Questions to Consider:
1) What major news is reported to David at the beginning of this chapter?
2) Who delivered the news to David, and what is significant about him?
3) What did the man from Saul’s camp communicate about Israel?
4) What stands out in 2 Samuel 1:6-10, and how does it compare to 1 Samuel 31:4?
5) How did David and the men who were with him demonstrate their grief over the devastating news they had received?
6) What other acts did David and his men engage in, according to 2 Samuel 1:12?
7) Why are David’s words in verse 14 of this chapter so important? (What is the key word that stands out in his question?)
8) What specific directive does David give to his young man, in regard to how to deal with the man who brought news of Saul, Jonathan, and Israel?
9) What is the “Song of the Bow”?
10) How did David choose to remember Saul, based on his lamentation?
11) Through his words, how did David honor Jonathan?
12) By the end of David’s lamentation, can it be said that he chose to remember the good or the bad, regarding Saul and his actions toward him?
A Flip the Script Self Examination Challenge: Digging Into the Heart of the Matter
Take some time to deeply reflect on the many benefits that come from releasing your hold on feelings of unforgiveness, your feelings concerning someone who has wronged you in the present, your feelings of resentment or anger associated with someone from your past, and/or your ruminating thoughts that linger and prevent you from moving forward in life. Choose to let go of any negative energy or toxic nuances that you have assigned to relationships in the spaces that you occupy.
Journal about your thoughts and feelings, regarding the aforementioned content.
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For those who may feel especially burdened by weighted matters concerning the unjust assaults of others or who feel hardened to the idea of forgiving wrongs, please know that it is okay to seek assistance from a trained professional or from an experienced ministerial leader. With the proper care, counseling, and/or intervention, healing is possible. You can experience the true liberation and freedom that comes via knowing, loving, and following after Christ.
Graphic Credit: Michael Stidham
The Phone Tree Bible Study Group 
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