Group Check-in    

1. What was the best part of your week?
2. What was the most difficult part of your week?

What’s 1 Samuel 17 About?

The story of David and Goliath is more than an underdog victory—it’s a pivotal moment in a much larger narrative. David, armed with only a sling and a deep trust in God, steps into the valley not just to defeat a giant, but to represent Israel’s faith in the God who delivers.

But this story isn’t meant to stand alone. It actually connects to four bigger, intertwined stories:

1. The Big Story of God and the World: Creation, the fall, redemption, and the promise of restoration. David’s victory reflects God’s mission to overcome evil through unexpected means.
2. The Story of Israel: David stands in the line of covenant faith—Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Moses—and now steps into his calling as Israel’s future king, fighting not by strength but by faith.
3. The Story of Jesus: David foreshadows Christ—the true and greater Deliverer who faced the ultimate enemy (sin and death) not with sword or spear, but through sacrifice.
4. The Story of You: You were born into this grand narrative. You are not the hero—Jesus is—but like David, you’re invited to play your part in God’s mission with courage and trust.

This chapter reminds us that true courage doesn’t come from size, skill, or strategy—but from faith in the One who fights for us.

Key Verse

“All those gathered here will know that it is not by sword or spear that the Lord saves; for the battle is the Lord’s, and he will give all of you into our hands.” — 1 Samuel 17:47 (NIV)

SOAP for the Week

Passage: 1 Samuel 17:45–47

Ice-Breakers

1. If you had to face a 9-foot giant in real life, what ridiculous weapon would you choose?
2. If someone made a movie of your life, who would you cast to play you?
3. In that movie, what moment would be your “giant-slaying” scene?

Group Discussion Questions

1. Where in your life right now do you feel most like the Israelite army—frozen by fear or self-doubt?
2. What “armor” or worldly strength are you tempted to rely on instead of trusting God fully?
3. When have you experienced God equipping you in a way others didn’t see coming—like David’s shepherd background preparing him for battle?
4. What “giant” are you facing this week, and what’s one step of faith you can take to confront it with trust in God?
5. Who in your life needs a reminder that the battle is the Lord’s—and how can you encourage them?
6. What’s one way you can reflect David’s example of courageous obedience in your work, school, or relationships this week?

Practical Takeaway

You’re part of a story much bigger than yourself. David didn’t become a hero by trying to be one—he trusted God and showed up. Your calling isn’t about being impressive; it’s about being faithful. When you know the battle is the Lord’s, you can step out with courage and play your part—no matter how small it seems.

Prayer

Father, thank You that You are the One who fights our battles. Help us to see beyond ourselves and trust that we are part of Your greater story. Give us faith like David to stand firm when things feel impossible. Remind us that Jesus has already won the ultimate victory—and now we get to follow Him with courage. In Jesus’ Name we pray. Amen.