Carnal weapons suited not the man whose reliance was upon the Lord, neither did they suit our Lord, to whom they were offered, only to be declined. To this day our Lord’s battles are not fought with the weapons of human force, but with those of spiritual energy, his warriors are not clad in martial mail, but in the armour of righteousness.
1Sa_17:40
These were suitable weapons for a shepherd, and he was accustomed to their use. They were also humble, practical, commonsense weapons, which had no glitter about them, but very much of appropriateness and hopefulness. Brave and believing men act as cautiously in the choice of weapons as if all depended upon themselves, and then trust wholly in the Lord, knowing that their success depends alone upon him.
What a wonderful picture is the scene before us if we read the typical meaning, and see Jesus, the Shepherd, with the pastoral staff in his hand, going forth to sling the smooth stones of the word at the head of the dread enemy of his people. Glorious hero, we bless thee!
1Sa_17:41-44
Bragging words are little worth.
1Sa_17:46-47
Here was no boasting, but faith spoke firmly and bravely.
1Sa_17:48
His foot and his hand went with his tongue, he was a doer as well as a speaker. Our Lord was a prophet, mighty in deed as well as word.
1Sa_17:49
How are the mighty fallen! and that too by the hand of a youth, despised and ridiculed! Thus by the foolishness of preaching, the Lord smites his adversary:
1Sa_17:50
He now needed one, and as faith had led him to come forward empty-handed, it was certain that his God would supply his need. If we will only trust God, everything will be supplied as we need it.
1Sa_17:51
Augustine beautifully says, “Our David has cast down our adversary, and cut off his head with his own sword,” for “by death he destroyed him that had the power of death, that is the devil.” The crucifixion of our Lord was the execution of sin. God’s enemies furnish weapons for their own destruction.
Evening
“
My soul hath kept Thy testimonies.”
1Sa_17:55-58
1Sa_17:55-56
Yet he ought to have known his former minstrel. Great men have usually bad memories towards those who serve them. David’s appearance had much changed, and the king too was almost insane when he last saw him; and, therefore, was not likely to remember him. To this day the Jews cannot answer that question concerning Christ “Whose son is he?” The blind world, looking for an outward glory, does not recognise the Son of the Highest.
1Sa_17:57-58
Hard is it to be honoured with such a victory, and yet remain humble. David showed his greatness as much after the fight as he did before and in the conflict. Had Saul been a man of truth he would have given the youthful hero his daughter’s hand, and every other possible reward.
1Sa_18:6-16
; 1Sa_18:28-30
1Sa_18:6-7
When our Lord returned triumphant over death and hell, leading captivity captive, the heavenly ones praised him in their songs. Do not our hearts also exult in the conquests of Immanuel our King?
1Sa_18:8-9
Envy, first- born of hell, whom wilt thou not assail! The modest behaviour of David ought to have protected him from Saul’s bitterness. We need not wonder that the old mania came back to Saul. He who admits an evil temper into his heart, must not marvel if a melancholy spirit enters with it to haunt the chambers of his soul.
1Sa_18:10-15
We might have expected to find David afraid of his powerful enemy, but the case was reversed. The wicked flee when no man pursueth, but the righteous are bold as a lion.
1Sa_18:16
The more they saw him, the better they loved him. He was an active leader, and ever at his post. Diligence and perseverance command the esteem of the wise.
1Sa_18:30
Good conduct is the great thing in life. The Lord make us followers of him, who was greater than David, of whom it was said, “He hath done all things well.” Holy Spirit, fashion us in the image of our Lord, that he may be glorified in us.
