In this message from 1 Samuel 17, we dive into the powerful story of David and Goliath—a battle that’s about far more than a sling and a stone. Pastor Dave unpacks how David’s confidence wasn’t rooted in his ability, but in remembering God’s past faithfulness and trusting Him in the present. When the armies of Israel were paralyzed by fear, David saw something different: a God who had already proven Himself in the private battles of the sheep pen. This message challenges us to stop fixating on the giants in front of us—whether fear, sickness, or spiritual struggles—and instead look up to the God who fights for us. Even more, we see how this story points forward to Jesus Christ, our true representative who won the ultimate victory over sin and death on our behalf. If you’re facing a battle today, this message will remind you: don’t forget to remember, change your focus, and trust that the battle belongs to the Lord.

David was anointed king—but instead of stepping into the palace, he was sent back to the sheep pen. In this message, we explore how God uses hidden seasons to shape our character before He elevates our calling. Through David’s life in 1 Samuel 16, we see that the “classroom” of obscurity teaches us to honor authority, remain faithful over time, embrace seasons of aloneness, and cultivate deep intimacy with God. Before God promotes us publicly, He prepares us privately—and the lessons learned in the sheep pen may be the most important ones we ever receive.

In this opening message of a new series on the life of David, we begin with the surprising moment when God chooses a shepherd boy to be the next king of Israel. David’s story is filled with contrasts—saint and sinner, loyal and flawed, victorious and broken—and in many ways it reflects our own spiritual journey. As we explore 1 Samuel 16, we discover that while people look at outward appearances, God looks at the heart. Through David’s calling, we are reminded that God often says “no” to human expectations so He can say “yes” to His greater plan, and that each of us is chosen, known, and called by God to live for His purposes.