SCRIPTURE: Read I Samuel 17:32-50
STUDY: David had a big heart for God. As a shepherd boy, he sang to the Lord all day long. The book of Psalms includes many songs David wrote telling God how great He is as well as sharing his troubles and hurts. David’s heart for God made a big impact on the people around him, who would follow David’s lead to love, obey and serve God. But life was not always easy for David. One of his biggest battles was against a giant who scared everyone so much that no one would fight him. Teenage David came along with his sling and stones and he definitely had an impact on Goliath!
Consider how David approached the problem - he did not hesitate but ran out to meet Goliath, facing his fears straight on. The reason for David’s confidence is that he knew God was on his side and that it was His battle: “The battle is the Lord’s” (Verse 47). This is so important for us to remember as well. David knew he was God’s helper in rescuing the people. David’s actions were contagious, influencing the other Israelites to honor God with their lives. David impacted people for good.
Important Note: When we offer ourselves for God’s purposes, we create opportunities for others to experience God through us.
CHALLENGE: Here is a fun family activity that can involve everyone.
• Trace the tallest person in your family on a really big piece of paper or cardboard. Fill in the features as if the drawing is Goliath. If you can’t find a big enough paper, take an 8 ½ x11 paper and draw Goliath’s face on it. Tape it on a wall of your home at the 9 ft mark or the highest you can get to.
• As a family, discuss some opportunities you may have individually or as a family to be used by God. What are the biggest fears your family members may have in following through on these “God missions"?
• Write each opportunity and fear on a separate piece of paper. Crumble them up to make “smooth impact stones.”
• Throw them at the Goliath poster, trying to hit his forehead.
• As you do, shout: “In the name of Jesus, we are victorious!”
• You might even act this story out as a family. Let the smallest child play David.
Pray for one another. Choose a prayer partner and commit to pray for that partner throughout the week, that the partner will be strong in the Lord when facing his/her “giants” and fears. Let’s have a big impact for Jesus this week!
KEY POINT: Impact: Leave a Mark
PRAYER: Father, at times there seem to be so many giants in the way as we try to follow You. Help us to be strong in You so we can have an impact on others; not just to make them happy, but so they can see You and want to follow You more. Thank you that the victory is in You.