David and Goliath (1 Samuel 17)
Focus Verses: Isaiah 40:28; Job 42:2; Psalm 18:32; Acts 1:8
The Israelites demanded a king despite God's warning. Saul became king. During their battle against the Philistines, Goliath, a giant champion, taunted them for 40 days. David, a shepherd boy, volunteered to face Goliath, despite Saul's doubts. Armed with faith, a sling, and stones, David confronted Goliath, affirming his trust in God. Despite Goliath's mockery, David's faith prevailed as he struck down the giant, securing a miraculous victory for Israel, and showcasing God's power through David's bravery and trust.
This young boy who defeated the giant would grow up to be king of all of Israel. God promised King David that one of his descendants would be king forever. Many generations later, a baby would be born to David’s family—Jesus, the promised Savior. David rescued the Israelite army from Goliath, but Jesus defeated death, making a way for us to be rescued from sin forever.
As many as 20 percent of American teenagers report they have experienced bullying. Bullying can be defined as something intentionally harmful that is repeated. Bullying can occur verbally, physically and even virtually via social media and other online platforms. While schools have increased awareness around bullying, churches typically have not. Most bullying behaviors happen without adults realizing it, so make sure you are well-attuned to the dynamics in your kids’ lives. In this week’s lesson, kids learned that God is mightier than anything we face.
Here’s how you can discuss at home:
Discuss: How would you describe what bullying is?
Discuss: How does bullying make kids feel?
Discuss: What does God have to say about that?
Say: David faced a giant bully in today’s story. Unfortunately, bullies can show up in our lives too. When someone harms us in some way repeatedly on purpose, that can be considered bullying, and it is not okay. God calls us to treat others like we want to be treated. He doesn’t want us to bully or be bullied. If someone is bullying you, tell someone. Talk to a trusted adult to get the help you need. We can also pray for God to change the heart of bullies. In Matthew 5:44, Jesus said: “Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.” God is mightier than the meanest bully. He can change hearts, and He can also give you strength to face challenging people who don’t change.