We shouldn’t judge the radical faith of others. David’s brother was angry that David wanted to show faith in God (v.28). Sometimes, it’s easy to judge zealous believers for being self-righteous or super-spiritual, but in this case, David’s brother was absolutely wrong. David was in the right, and his brother was being cynical, judgmental, and frankly, sinful.
Large spiritual victories come after long times of faithfulness. It takes preparation to quietly follow and trust God over the years (v.34). Are you content guarding a little flock of sheep? Are you faithful with the little flock God has given you, or are you too busy daydreaming over doing “big” things like saving the nation of Israel from a nine-foot giant? Believers often daydream about being the next Billy Graham, but are they content to faithfully lead a small group of people from the “lions” and “bears” daily?
David was quick to point out that God was the one who would accomplish this battle—not himself (v.46). This was because earlier “the Spirit of the Lord came mightily upon David” (1 Sam. 16:13).
David was very different from Saul. David didn’t trust in his own power, but God’s power. Saul wants the credit for himself, but David gives the credit to God.
James is an elder at Dwell Community Church, where he teaches classes in theology, apologetics, and weekly Bible studies.
