BRBC Bible Notes
Week by week, we post notes based on the theme of the Sunday service, so that people can follow them in their own personal devotions, in prayer triplets, or in the church life groups.
Bible Study 4: David and Goliath
Main Passage: 1 Samuel 17:1–58
Purpose of the Study
This study is designed to:
Encourage believers to trust God in the face of overwhelming challenges.
Strengthen faith in God’s power rather than human strength.
Challenge the church to confront fear and step boldly into God-given opportunities.Opening Prayer
“Lord, help us to face giants in our lives with courage and faith. Teach us to rely on Your strength and guidance rather than our own abilities. Empower us to serve You boldly and triumph over fear. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”
1. Read the Passage: 1 Samuel 17:1–58
Invite a participant to read the passage aloud, noting the contrast between Goliath’s size and David’s youth, as well as the faith that enabled David to act.
2. Context and Summary
The Philistine army, led by the giant Goliath, challenges Israel. David, a young shepherd, volunteers to fight, armed only with faith, a sling, and five stones. He declares that the battle belongs to the Lord and defeats Goliath through God’s power. This story illustrates that God equips the humble and faithful to overcome seemingly impossible obstacles.
3. Key Themes and Reflections
A. Courage Rooted in Faith
David’s courage is not based on physical strength but trust in God’s power.
Reflection Question: What “giants” are you facing, and how can your faith give you courage?
Quote: “Faith sees the invisible, believes the incredible, and receives the impossible.” — Unknown
Related Scripture:
Joshua 1:9 – Be strong and courageous; God is with you.
2 Corinthians 12:9–10 – God’s power is made perfect in weakness.
B. God Uses the Humble and Ordinary
David, the youngest and least experienced, was chosen by God to defeat the giant.
God values obedience and faith over experience, status, or appearance.
Reflection Question: Are we limiting God by focusing on our weaknesses rather than His power?
Quote: “God often uses the unlikely to accomplish the extraordinary.” — Unknown
Related Scripture:
1 Corinthians 1:27–28 – God chooses the weak to shame the strong.
1 Samuel 16:7 – God looks at the heart.
C. Victory Belongs to the Lord
David declares that the battle belongs to God, not to him.
Success in spiritual battles comes from surrender to God, not self-reliance.
Reflection Question: How can we cultivate a mindset that places every challenge in God’s hands?
Quote: “The victory is God’s before the battle even begins.” — Unknown
Related Scripture:
Exodus 14:14 – The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still.
Psalm 44:3 – God gave His people victory, not by their own power.
4. A Word to the Church: Facing Giants Together
The church is called to confront spiritual and practical challenges with faith.
Encouragement and support among believers strengthen confidence in God.
Challenge: Are we relying on God individually and corporately, or are we depending on human solutions alone?Group Discussion:
Share examples of “giants” that God has helped you overcome.
How can our church encourage one another to trust God in difficult circumstances?
5. A Call to Action: Step Out in Faith
Identify one challenge where you need God’s courage this week.
Pray for God’s guidance and strength to act boldly in faith.Closing Scripture Meditation
Romans 8:37 – “In all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us.”
Final Prayer
“Lord, we thank You that no giant is too big when You are on our side. Strengthen our faith, embolden our hearts, and help us to act according to Your will. May we rely on Your power and give You all glory for the victories in our lives. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”
For a printable version of this, and previous editions, please click here.
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