David picked up five smooth stones from a stream and put them into his shepherd’s bag. Then armed only with his shepherd’s staff and sling, he started across the valley to fight the Philistine.
1 Samuel 17: 40 {entire ref. 1 Samuel 17:1-58} Although the Bible does not clearly state why David took 5 stones nor the meaning of each stone, I have come to believe each stone represented the following: 1. Love vs Hate: John 15:13 For the greatest love of all is a love that sacrifices all. And this great love is demonstrated when a person sacrifices his life for his friends.
God will supply all my needs according to His riches in glory
3. Humility vs Pride: 1 Peter 5:5 God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble.
4. Wisdom vs Foolishness: Proverbs 3:5 Trust in the Lord completely, and do not rely on your own opinions. With all your heart rely on him to guide you, and he will lead you in every decision you make.
5. Joy vs Sorrow: Exodus 15:2 The Lord is my strength and my song; he has given me victory. This is my God, and I will praise him, my father’s God, and I will exalt him.
David was able to stand before a giant when the mighty warriors of the land were shaking in their boots because David knew his identity. Although a young boy, David was obedient to the God he served and refused to let a nation be sacrificed. Obedience is better than sacrifice. 1 Samuel 15:22b |