Found, Favored, and Fearless
Morning: 1 Samuel 17-18
Evening: Luke 15:1-10
In 1 Samuel 17–18, we see a young shepherd boy rise to unlikely prominence. David, full of faith, defeats the Philistine giant Goliath—not with a sword or spear, but with a sling, a stone, and the name of the Lord. “The battle is the Lord’s” (1 Samuel 17:47), David declared. His courage didn’t come from confidence in himself, but from confidence in the God he served.
Then in 1 Samuel 18, we witness how God’s favor follows obedience and humility. David is loved by Jonathan, honored by Saul’s men, and celebrated by the people. But even with growing popularity, David remains humble.
In Luke 15:1–10, Jesus tells of a shepherd who leaves the ninety-nine to find the one lost sheep, and a woman who rejoices over one recovered coin. These parables echo the heart of God—a Father who values even the least and rejoices when one is found. David may have been overlooked by men, but God found him faithful in the field and used him to change a nation.
Like David, we may feel unseen or unqualified. Like the lost sheep, we may have wandered off. But God sees, pursues, and calls each of us into purpose, not because of who we are, but because of who He is.
Key Insights
- Faith, Not Size, Wins the Battle
David wasn’t the strongest—but his trust in God made him victorious (1 Samuel 17:45–47). - God Elevates the Humble
David didn’t seek fame, yet God gave him favor. Humility attracts God’s promotion (1 Samuel 18:14–16). - No One Is Too Small to Be Chosen by God
Just as David was the youngest and least likely, the lost sheep and coin were seemingly insignificant—but both were of immense value to God (Luke 15:4–10). - Heaven Rejoices Over the Found
Every soul matters. There is joy in heaven over one sinner that repents (Luke 15:7). - God Sees What Others Miss
Others may see a shepherd boy, but God sees a king. God looks past the outside to the heart and potential within.
Connection to Other Scripture
Jeremiah 1:5 – “Before I formed thee in the belly I knew thee; and before thou camest forth out of the womb I sanctified thee…”
This reminds us that God’s plans for us were formed long before anyone recognized our potential. Like David, we are known, called, and equipped by God.
Questions to Reflect On
- What “giants” in my life am I trying to face with my own strength instead of God’s?
- Do I believe that God can use me, even when I feel small or unseen?
- How do I respond when others are celebrated or promoted before me?
- Am I actively rejoicing when the lost are found, or do I struggle with comparison?
- What would change if I truly believed I was valuable and chosen by God?
A Prayer for Today
Heavenly Father, thank You for seeing me, even when I feel overlooked. Teach me to trust in You like David did, to face every battle with faith, and to walk in humility. Help me to rejoice in the victories of others and to celebrate every soul that returns to You. May I remember daily that I am loved, chosen, and deeply valued by You. Use my life for Your glory. In Jesus’ name, amen.