Never Listen to Those Who Oppose You - Above the God Who Called You!

* **Icebreaker:** What is the most well-meaning but completely terrible piece of advice you have ever received?

* In 1 Samuel 17, Joshua highlights that David faced intense opposition from three specific sources before he even fought Goliath: his family (Eliab), failures (Saul), and his foes (Goliath). What stood out to you about how each of these sources tried to discourage or "box in" David?

* Joshua noted that Eliab tried to put David back into a "brother-assigned" box rather than the role God was creating for him. Why do you think people close to us—even Christian brothers and sisters—sometimes try to keep us in the boxes they have designed for us?

* Joshua described Saul as a "failure" who held a high title but offered worldly, discouraging advice ("You are not able"). How can we distinguish between godly, fruitful counsel and worldly advice from people who simply hold a title or position?

* **Moment for Silent Reflection:** Take a minute to silently read and reflect on 1 Samuel 17:30: *"And he turned from him toward another and spake after the same manner."* Reflect on any critical or discouraging voices in your life right now. How is God inviting you to politely but firmly turn away from those critics so you can keep moving forward in your calling?

* Goliath disdained David and mocked him, yet the text reveals he also cursed David by his gods, showing it was a spiritual battle. When you face open criticism or bullying from "foes" in your daily life, how can you look past the person to recognize the spiritual battle at play?

* Joshua emphasized that the opposition we experience is often proof that God is trying to elevate us into our God-given and God-anointed positions. What is one specific area of service or faith where you have hesitated because of fear of opposition? What concrete action will you take this week to move forward in that area despite the critics?