Rivercrest Presbyterian Church - Sermons Rivercrest Presbyterian Church

A familiar story in the Bible that might get perceived incorrectly, the fight between David and Goliath is not about the strength of David or how the humble underdog prevails over the oppressive foe, but how the Mighty God of Israel defeats His enemies. We can struggle with God's place, pace, plan or providence, but God is always perfect in His timing and acts. 

The Philistines continue to combat the Israelites, but this time it's a single foe who puts fear into the hearts of his enemies. Goliath is described as impressive and intimidating, contrasted with David who is young and unassuming. But as the theme of 1 Samuel has shown us, the outward appearance is not what matters, but it's the heart. And it's not that David is so great that Israel has a chance, but because His God, the Son of Man who came to seek and to save the lost, is always victorious over His enemies.

Saul is facing trouble, a harmful spirit from the Lord, and is seeking some relief. Providentially, one of Saul's servants knows of David who is skillful and able to help the king. Unknown to Saul is the anointing of David as his replacement, but David serves the king faithfully and finds favor in Saul's sight.

The Lord meets Samuel in his grief and doesn't let him stay there. Graciously we see how God calls Samuel to worship, to seek the next king who isn't like Saul, whom man saw the outside appearance and loved, but who is faithful in the heart where God sees. The Lord is providing for His people a new and better king in David, a man who points us to the True King from David's line; Jesus Christ.

Saul continues to be disobedient to the Lord in his self seeking kingship. In honoring himself and raising a monument to his own glory, Saul has neglected following after the True King of Israel, and God is grieved by his unfaithfulness. The way of Saul has led to his downfall and the throne is now opened for a new king. 

There is a tension to the reality that God is actively working in history, and that history is still a mess. This passage shows us that even in the chaos of life, God still speaks His word, God still sees what's happening, and God still scorns what's sinful. And beyond that, as His children, God still calls our names.