Chapter 245 of 1163

1 SAMUEL 17

Opportunities. God had prepared David for this occasion, for the private victories make possible the public victories (vv. 34–37). A seemingly trivial errand led to a challenging situation that brought glory to God and recognition to David. Be prepared; you never know when your opportunity will come.

Saul was losing strength, but David was growing in power; and Saul’s diminishment would continue until Saul’s tragic death. Saul stood head and shoulders above everybody else, but he was not big enough to meet Goliath. David was a man of faith, and God gave him spiritual stature. Great faith makes great men and women. David’s only desire was to glorify the God of Israel (vv. 45–47).

Obstacles. Whenever you step out by faith, other people will often put obstacles in your way. David’s brother ridiculed him (v. 28) and Saul bluntly told David, “You are not able!” (v. 33). Then Saul said, “If you must do it, do it my way,” and he encumbered David with his heavy armor. David had to ignore the obstacles and keep his faith in the Lord. He had to do God’s work in the way God wanted him to do it.

David and the Lord Jesus

David is a picture of the Lord Jesus Christ, the Son of David. He was born in Bethlehem and misunderstood by his family; he was an obedient son and a conquering hero. The name David means “beloved,” and Jesus is the Father’s “beloved Son” (Matt. 3:17). David was anointed king long before he took the throne and ruled, and our Lord is King of kings even though He is not yet reigning on this earth. Like David, our Lord has had to experience rejection and exile before reigning.

↑ Back to top