1 Samuel - The Coming King Exemplo

Chapter 16 made it clear that the Lord, in contrast to us, doesn’t look at the outward appearance, but at the heart. This famous story of David and Goliath is a great demonstration of that principle. Goliath seems in charge, but God has other plans. 

The giant Philistine, Goliath, with his massive muscles and armed to the teeth, challenges and taunts God’s people (vv. 4–10). Unfortunately, the response of Saul and his armies is cowardly and cowering (v. 11). Again, Saul fails as king. It’s up to David, not Saul, to step forward as the Saviour-King of God’s people here. David is a young shepherd boy (vv. 12–15), mocked by his older brothers (v. 28) and seemingly ill-equipped for battle (vv. 38–39). Outwardly, he is nothing before the towering, frightening Goliath. But, God has already secretly prepared this shepherd boy to be Israel’s anointed king. He has been filled with the Spirit (16:13). He has already fought with wild animals (vv. 34–37). And, above all, he has been given faith and courage (vv. 26, 36, 45–47). David knows that the battle belongs to the Lord (vv. 37, 46). He is truly a man after God’s own heart. 

The surprising end of the story brings victory through weakness (vv. 48–49). It’s the slingshot of David that wins, and not a sword. As a result, the Philistines suffer humiliating defeat at the hands of the armies of Israel (vv. 51–54). Israel’s victory, though, hasn’t come through their own strategy and weaponry, but through the courage of another. Someone else has fought and won on behalf of the people. 

Isn’t this story an amazing picture of the gospel? Jesus, the anointed king, came in weakness and servanthood. He too was rejected by many, even his own brothers. He too entrusted himself to the Lord and walked by faith. And in a way that no-one expected, at the cross, he defeated the giants of sin, death and the devil. We haven’t won through our efforts, but we get to enjoy the victory of a great Saviour-King who has fought on our behalf.

REFLECTION

1. Why do you think God saves his people through a seemingly weak king?

2. To what extent are you resting in what Jesus has already done for you, or do you still feel that you have to achieve it all yourself?