Most men do one thing well and call it enough.
King David did many things well and was usually ready and eager to do more.
David's convictions became apparent to his family and friends early in his life.
While visiting an Israelite military camp, David was horrified to see the Philistines'
champion, Goliath, arrogantly challenge the Israelites: "I defy the armies of
Israel this day; give me a man, that we may fight together" (1Samuel 17:10).
No Israelite dared face the giant. This situation infuriated David. "What
shall be done for the man who kills this Philistine and takes away the reproach from
Israel?" he demanded. "For who is this uncircumcised Philistine, that he
should defy the armies of the living God?" (1Samuel 17:26).
The events that immediately followed became a legend.
How did this young man, whose background included herding sheep, writing poetry
and playing and singing songs under starry skies, become a fearless, valiant warrior?
Let's consider how David matured into the most renowned of Israel's kings.
David's accomplishments were many. He captured Jerusalem, making it the national
capital, and reunited the nation. In a 40-year span he controlled an empire that
stretched from Egypt to Mesopotamia. A man of many talents, he was a shepherd, poet,
musician, warrior and statesman and an administrator who set a standard for the later
kings of Israel and Judah.
As the youngest of eight sons of Jesse, his job was to tend sheep. Shepherding
meant lonely vigils as well as opportunities to come to know God in an intimate relationship
that developed throughout David's life.
