David's Faith is Revealed as Ready

David has been anointed as the man chosen by God to be Saul's replacement. He will not assume this role until after the death of Saul. Following that anointing by Samuel is the familiar account of David facing the giant of an opponent known as Goliath. In this confrontation David will demonstrate his character, his faith and his confidence in God. His jealousy for God's honor motivates him to step up and out in faith. He remains confident that the ability of God to deliver him in the past will be sufficient to deliver him in the face of this trouble.

Each of the trials he faced served to further refine his faith and develop his character as God prepared him to be king of Israel.

Many lessons can be learned from studying this time in David's life. These include -

1. Satan can present awesome and frightening opponents before God's people.
2. Even family & friends can be discouraging to us to act in faith.
3. Sometimes even advice of older and more experienced people isn't the best counsel.
4. We ought to remember what God has done in the past and that recall should serve to build our faith.
5. Conflict and difficulty are part of God's plan for developoing His eervants.
6. Victory in battle always comes from the Lord.
7. Faith takes risks - often we just need to proceed agressively, going all out by faith.
8. Be prepared to live by faith, serving the Lord - every day.