What Are You Trying to Control? | 1 Samuel 31

Main message: Saul's downfall in 1 Samuel shows how loving power, control, and self-focus (being "after your own heart") destroys a life; the call for believers is to surrender control, stop fixating on ourselves, listen to God's voice (and the Holy Spirit), and live for others.

Key points:

• Saul began chosen by God but fell because he became enamored with the role, sought control, and protected his status rather than honoring God.
• Control and self-centered identity produce anxiety and lead people to ignore repeated warnings and chances to repent.
• A practical antidote is "hide self view" — stop obsessing over others' opinions and your image; find worth in God (illustrated by Tim Keller's idea of self-forgetfulness).
• Instead of trying to manage everything, cultivate dependence on the Holy Spirit and make space to hear God's guidance in daily decisions.
• Live outwardly toward others, accept God's provision, and use daily rhythms (new days) to reset and surrender control to God.

Scriptures mentioned: 1 Samuel 31