David and Goliath

File No. 56

I SAMUEL 17:1–53

DAVID AND GOLIATH

(SBS Bk 2 Story No. 36)

Story Notes

The Spirit of the Lord had come powerfully on David. Now we see the result of this and the way David came to public attention. Goliath had terrorised Israel’s troops because they had no practical knowledge of the fact that the Lord was with them. David had learned in his shepherding that he could rely on God to protect his flock.

David asking questions about the Philistine giant annoyed his brothers. His purpose was not to avoid other duties, or to play the role of hero, but to stir the troops to see what this Philistine was doing. God’s ownership and protection of Israel and her armies had been questioned. The Spirit of God in David was provoked. So, Saul and Israel again had the benefit of prophetic confidence and Saul gave David his blessing: ‘May the Lord be with you!’

David dealt with Goliath with the simplicity of what he knew—a sling shot. More importantly, he was jealous for the name of the Lord. His ambition was that the world would know there was a God in Israel. His conviction was that God would demonstrate his care for Israel by working without the use of superior power. So Israel gained a victory, and Saul made closer enquiry as to whom he would have to reward.

We have been told that Saul already loved David and benefited from his music. This story implies that he knew nothing of David. This may be because he had given little attention to the details of those who served him.