Life Group Questions

2. Describe someone’s death that was difficult for you to handle. How did you deal with your grief? What are some differences between lament/grief and denial or despair? Why did David want this poem taught to Israel (vs. 18)?

3. Why do you think this section of Scripture is written as a song or poem? How does the form of the section (i.e., literary style) help communicate the intended message? Why is the repeated phrase, “How the mighty have fallen” (verses 19, 25, 27) significant?

4. What impresses you about the way in which David handled the death of Saul in this passage? What are some aspects of Saul and David’s relationship that might have caused David to respond differently? What are some things that will help us lament for those who seem less worthy (cf. Ezekiel 18:23; Proverbs 24:17; Matthew 5:43)?

5. Describe the friendship that existed between David and Jonathan. Provide some feedback on the following passages that discuss the nature and benefits of true friendship: Proverbs 17:17; Ecclesiastes 4:9-12; John 15:13-15; Proverbs 18:24.

6. What does it mean to have a healthiness to grief (cf. Psalm 30:4; Romans 12:15)? Why is it important for us to keep grief in a proper perspective? What are some things that can help us help ourselves and others with grief (cf. 1Corinthians 15)?