The Wisdom Journey with Stephen Davey

How does a leader go from being chosen by God to being rejected by Him? King Saul’s story is a cautionary tale of pride, impatience, and partial obedience. In this episode, explore the defining moments that led to Saul’s downfall, from offering an unauthorized sacrifice to sparing the Amalekite king despite God’s clear command.

Have you ever made a decision based on appearances rather than wisdom? Israel did when they demanded a king like the other nations. Instead of trusting God, they insisted on human leadership, and their choice of Saul seemed ideal—tall, handsome, and influential. But what looked good on the outside didn’t guarantee godly leadership.

What does true repentance require? In 1 Samuel, the Israelites want victory over their enemies, but Samuel tells them they must first return to the Lord. He outlines four essential steps—return, remove, direct, and serve. When Israel finally obeys, God grants them a miraculous victory.

This episode unpacks these...

Do you treat God like a lucky charm, expecting blessings without obedience? In 1 Samuel, Israel tries to manipulate God by carrying the ark into battle. Instead of victory, they face devastating defeat. The Philistines, thinking they’ve conquered Israel’s God, take the ark—but soon face their own judgment. Statues topple, plagues spread, and fear grips...

What happens when faith meets hardship? The story of Hannah and Samuel in 1 Samuel reveals the power of a surrendered life. Hannah’s desperate prayer leads to the birth of Samuel, a prophet who will guide Israel. Meanwhile, Eli the priest fails to restrain his wicked sons, and God’s judgment soon follows.

This ...

What does the book of Ruth teach about God’s plan for redemption? The story of Ruth and Boaz isn’t just a historical romance—it’s a powerful illustration of Christ’s love for His bride, the church. In this episode, discover how Boaz fulfilled the role of kinsman-redeemer, paying the price to restore Ruth’s family and future.

This lesson highlights four ...

How does a simple exchange of a sandal point to God’s eternal plan? In Ruth 4, Boaz redeems Ruth, securing her future with an act of sacrificial love. But before he can claim her as his bride, another relative has the legal right to marry her first. The tension builds as Boaz presents the situation at the city gate, where b...

What would drive a woman to propose marriage at midnight? Ruth 3 is not your typical love story—it’s a moment of risk, faith, and divine orchestration. Naomi advises Ruth to approach Boaz privately, asking him to redeem her according to Jewish law. But this wasn’t just about marriage; it was about salvation.

Is life a series of coincidences, or is there a greater plan at work? In Ruth 2, we see how God orchestrates events behind the scenes, even when life seems uncertain. Ruth, a destitute widow, makes what appears to be a simple decision—to glean in a field to gather food. But in God’s providence, she "just so happens" to cho...

How do you respond to suffering? The story of Ruth begins with loss—three widows facing an uncertain future. Naomi, Orpah, and Ruth must each decide how to respond. One turns back to a life of idolatry. One becomes bitter, blaming God for her pain. And one chooses to trust, declaring, "Your God will be my God."

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What happens when practical choices lead to spiritual disaster? In Ruth 1:1-5, Elimelech moves his family from Bethlehem to Moab, seeking relief from famine. What begins as a temporary solution turns into a decade-long stay, two marriages outside the faith, and ultimately, three graves in a foreign land.

This ep...

What happens when a society rejects God’s truth? Judges 19–21 provides one of the darkest and most disturbing accounts in all of Scripture. Violence, corruption, and moral failure dominate Israel because everyone does what is right in their own eyes. They justify evil, defend wickednes...

What happens when people reject God’s authority? Judges 17–18 reveals a shocking truth: they don’t stop worshiping—they just make their own gods. Micah, an Israelite, created his own version of religion with idols, personal priests, and rituals that looked spiritual but had nothing to do with God.

Where are your eyes leading you? Samson’s life is a warning about the danger of following unchecked desires. He was set apart for God’s service, blessed with supernatural strength, yet his downfall began with what he chose to see. He pursued what looked good, even when it was outside o...

Does having great potential guarantee a great life? Samson’s story proves otherwise. He had godly parents, divine calling, and supernatural strength—yet he made foolish choices that led to disaster.

Judges 13–14 introduces Samson as a 

Have you ever tried to negotiate with God? Judges 11 tells the tragic story of Jephthah, a judge who tried to manipulate God’s promise. He vowed to offer a sacrifice in exchange for victory—but God had already guaranteed success.

Jeph...

Does your past define your future? Judges 10 and 11 reveal a powerful truth: God’s grace isn’t limited by your background, failures, or reputation. Jephthah was rejected by his family, abandoned by his people, and forced to live among criminals. But when Israel needed a leader, God cho...

Why do some believers finish well while others drift into failure? Gideon’s life offers a powerful warning. He started with great faith, trusted God for victory, and rejected Israel’s offer to make him king. But his later years tell a different story.

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