David: From Shepherd to King

In our last study, we learned how God chose Saul to be the first king of Israel. However, Saul disobeyed God's commands, and God told Samuel that He had rejected Saul as king. In this chapter, we see God's new choice for the future king – a young shepherd boy named David. We also read about an early display of David's courage and strength as he protected his father's sheep.

Discussion Questions:

1. Why did God send Samuel to Jesse's house in Bethlehem? What was Samuel's initial impression of Jesse's oldest son, Eliab?
2. How did God correct Samuel's perspective on who should be king? What does this teach us about how God sees us versus how others (or even we ourselves) might see us?
3. Describe David when he was finally brought before Samuel. What did God tell Samuel to do? What did the Spirit of the Lord do for David from that day forward?
4. The chapter also recounts David killing a lion and a bear while protecting his father's sheep. What do these acts of bravery reveal about David's character and his reliance on God?
5. Even though David was anointed king, Saul was still on the throne. What do you think David's life might have been like during this time, knowing his destiny but not yet seeing it fulfilled?
6. Have you ever felt that God has a plan for your life, even if you can't see the whole picture yet? How can we trust in God's timing?
7. What qualities did David possess, even as a young shepherd, that might have made him a good leader?
8. How can we show courage and faithfulness in the everyday tasks of our lives, just as David did when caring for the sheep?

Prayer:

Dear Lord, thank you for the story of David, a young shepherd whom you chose to be king. We see how you look beyond outward appearances and see the heart. Help us to trust in your plans for our lives, even when they seem different from our own expectations. Give us courage to face challenges, big and small, knowing that you are with us. May we be faithful in the tasks you give us, and may your Spirit be upon us, guiding us in your ways. Amen.

This discussion is based on The One Year Bible Storybook by Virginia Muir.