In 1 Samuel 17, the Philistines gathered their army to wage war against Israel. Among the Philistines was their champion, a giant named Goliath. He challenged the Israelites to send out a champion to fight him, with the condition that the loser’s nation would become servants to the victor’s nation. The Israelites were dismayed and afraid.
David, a young shepherd boy, arrived at the battlefield to bring supplies for his brothers who were soldiers. Upon hearing Goliath’s challenge, David volunteered to fight him. King Saul initially hesitated but eventually allowed David to face the giant.
David refused to wear armor and instead armed himself with a slingshot and five smooth stones. He confronted Goliath, proclaiming his faith in God. With a single stone flung from his slingshot, David struck Goliath in the forehead, causing him to fall. David then used Goliath’s own sword to kill him.
The Philistines fled in fear, and the Israelites pursued them, achieving a great victory. David’s courage and faith in God earned him great fame and favor in Israel.
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