June 15-21: 1 Samuel 17-18; 24-26; 2 Samuel 5-7
"The Battle Is the Lord's"
David Chapman Lindsay (American, born 1974)
David's Prayer (2011)
Ink on paper, 10 x 10 inches
Edition size: 3
Private collections
Used with permission of the artist
David defeats the Philistine giant Goliath with a sling and a stone, gaining fame throughout Israel and forming a close friendship with Jonathan, Saul’s son. Saul becomes jealous of David’s success and begins to see him as a threat, leading to growing tension and attempts on David’s life. Although David has multiple opportunities to kill Saul, he refuses, choosing instead to spare Saul because he is the Lord’s anointed king. David eventually becomes king over all Israel and establishes Jerusalem as his capital. God makes a covenant with David, promising that his kingdom and lineage will endure.
These chapters center upon trust in God, integrity, and covenant faithfulness. David’s victory over Goliath highlights a courage rooted in faith rather than physical strength. His refusal to harm Saul demonstrates respect for God’s authority and moral integrity even when wronged.
Artist David Chapman Lindsay's created the artwork David's Prayer in a unique way. He painted a picture of David praying on his own hand with ink, and then he pressed his hand into paper to make three prints. Each of these prints is slightly different because the ink on his hand gradually fades. Ponder this work while you think about David's unlikely victory over Goliath and his humble ascension to ruling Israel. What might be relevant about this story today? David’s response to Saul challenges modern ideas about revenge, showing the power of patience and self-control in conflict. The story also speaks to how success can bring both opportunity and opposition, requiring humility and trust in God. Finally, God’s covenant with David reminds readers that lasting impact and legacy are built not merely on personal ambition, but on alignment with a greater purpose.
Gospel Questions
1. David defeated the Giant Goliath with a small stone. What giants in your life have been slayed by a small thing?
2. How do you treat others who quickly achieve the success you want?
3. How do you discern whether an opportunity is from God or simply a shortcut to something you desire?
For Children and Youth
Hi. Moses reminds God’s people to love Him with all their hearts and to remember how He took care of them. He teaches them to be kind, make good choices, and trust God as they get ready to enter their new home.
1. David was very brave when he decided to fight the giant goliath. How can you be brave in your own life?
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