David and Goliath

1 Samuel 17 | Pastor Connor Bales

Big Idea:
When we face giants in life, we don’t shrink back—we step forward in faith, because the battle belongs to the Lord.

1 Samuel 17:1–3 ESV

Setup: Israel and the Philistines face off in a classic showdown—two armies, two mountains, one valley.
(Think: OU vs. Texas-level rivalry.)

Goliath the Champion

1 Samuel 17:4–11

• 9’9” giant with 125 lbs of armor and a 15 lb spearhead

• Known as a “champion” among warriors

• Issues a representative battle challenge—but no takers from Israel

Enter David

1 Samuel 17:12–27

• Youngest son, faithfully serving behind the scenes

• Sent by Jesse to bring food and check on brothers

• Hears Goliath’s taunt and is moved to action

• While Saul and the army are afraid, David asks, “Who is this Philistine to defy the armies of the living God?”

4 Ways to Face Your Giants – From David’s Example

1. We LISTEN to God

1 Samuel 17:28–40 | 1 Samuel 12:22 ESV

• David ignores doubters (Eliab, Saul)

• He’s been hearing and worshiping God while tending sheep

• Our foundation comes from knowing God’s promises

“For the LORD will not forsake His people…” – 1 Samuel 12:22

2. We LEARN from God

1 Samuel 17:34–40

• Past faithfulness fuels future faith: David recalls lion and bear victories

• God has delivered before—He will again

• Personal history with God builds courage

What stones of testimony are in your shepherd’s bag?

3. We LOOK at God

1 Samuel 17:41–47

• David’s confidence isn’t in size, weapons, or armor—it’s in the Lord

• Goliath defies Israel’s God—David takes it personally

• David fights in the name of the Lord of hosts

“The battle is the Lord’s…” – v. 47

4. We LIVE for God

1 Samuel 17:48–51

• David runs toward the battle line

• Victory comes not from sword or strength, but through obedience and faith

• When you belong to the Lord, you are not called to be passive—you are called to act

Final Reflection:

What giants are you facing today?

• Fear, doubt, sin, shame, or apathy?

• Listen to God. Learn from His past faithfulness. Look at Him, not the giant. Live for His glory.

Jesus—the Greater David—has already defeated the greatest giant: sin.