David sees a Mortal man defying God

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Challenge

Three of David’s brothers have gone off to fight in Saul’s army against the Philistines (v. 13). David is introduced once more as the youngest son of Jesse, who has eight boys (v. 14). David had been playing his harp for Saul but had gone home to Bethlehem to take care of his father’s sheep (v. 15). Keep in mind that David has already been anointed by Samuel to become the next king of Israel. For forty days the giant came out and challenged them morning and evening (v. 16). While he is home, Jesse asks David to take some food and go up to the front lines of battle and check on the well-being of his brothers (vv. 17-18). Soldiers at that time had to maintain themselves while fighting the enemy. David lost no time in traveling the twelve miles to the camp and when he arrives on the front lines, everyone is talking about this man, Goliath, who is defying anyone in the Israelite army to come and fight him (vv. 19-20). David arrived with provisions for his brothers, and immediately he was interested in the challenge of the giant (vv. 21-23).

When any Israelite would see him, they would run and hide (v. 24).What a difference perspective can have. Most of the Israelites saw only a big giant (v. 25) who was even bigger than Saul by a good three feet. David, however, saw a mortal man defying almighty God. (vv. 26-27). He knew that he would not be alone when he faced Goliath, God would fight with him. He looked at the situation from God’s point of view. Viewing impossible situations from God’s point of view helps us put giant problems in the proper perspective. Once we see clearly we can fight more effectively.

When David’s oldest brother, Eliab, heard that David had arrived in the camp, he became angry and asked what he was doing there (v. 28). His response to his younger brother was designed to belittle him in the eyes of the soldiers. He implied that great things could not be expected from a shepherd, especially when men twice his age and experienced in fighting could do nothing. Perhaps this was out of concern for his safety or else he was jealous because David was getting attention. And David said, “What have I done now? I was only asking why someone doesn’t take on this pagan Philistine?" (v. 29). Then he turned to others in the same way, and got the same response (v. 30).

Application

When people may try to discourage me with negative comments as I try to serve God. I just need to continue to do what I know is right and what will be pleasing God.

I Samuel 17:12-30 (English Standard Version)


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