Birth and Early Life
David was born in Bethlehem, the youngest of eight sons to Jesse, a man of the tribe of Judah. His birth is not described in detail in the Bible, but we know he was part of a humble family. David’s early life was spent tending his father’s sheep, a task often given to the youngest in the family.

Overseeing the Sheep
David’s responsibilities as a shepherd required him to spend long hours in the fields. This time helped him develop qualities like patience, bravery, and trust in God. He became skilled with the sling, a weapon he used to protect his flock from predators.

Guarding Against Lions and Bears
David’s bravery is evident in his account of protecting the sheep. In 1 Samuel 17:34-36, he tells King Saul how he fought both a lion and a bear. When a predator attacked, David pursued it, struck it, and killed it. This demonstrated his courage and his faith in God’s protection.

Facing Goliath
When David was still a youth—likely in his mid-to-late teens—he encountered Goliath, a giant Philistine warrior who terrified the Israelite army. Goliath’s description in 1 Samuel 17 is striking:
• Height: Over nine feet tall (approximately 2.7 meters).
• Armor: Goliath wore a bronze helmet and a coat of scale armor weighing about 125 pounds (57 kilograms).
• Weaponry: He carried a massive spear with an iron point weighing 15 pounds (6.8 kilograms).
Despite his intimidating appearance and power, David relied on his faith. Rejecting King Saul’s heavy armor, he took only his sling and five smooth stones. With a single, well-aimed stone, David struck Goliath in the forehead, causing him to fall. David then used Goliath’s own sword to kill him, solidifying his victory (1 Samuel 17:49-51).

David and King Saul
After David’s victory over Goliath, Saul brought him into his court, and David became a favorite due to his bravery and talent as a musician. David played the harp to soothe Saul when the king was troubled by an evil spirit (1 Samuel 16:23). However, Saul’s favor turned to jealousy as David’s fame grew among the Israelites.

Saul’s Attempts to Kill David
Saul’s jealousy led to multiple attempts on David’s life:
1. Throwing a Spear: Saul tried to pin David to the wall with a spear, but David escaped (1 Samuel 18:10-11).
2. Dangerous Missions: Saul sent David on perilous military campaigns, hoping he would be killed in battle (1 Samuel 18:25).
3. Pursuit: Saul pursued David relentlessly, forcing him to flee and live as a fugitive.
Despite these attempts, David refused to harm Saul, whom he respected as God’s anointed king.

David’s Character and Faith
Throughout his life, David displayed deep faith in God. He composed many of the Psalms, which express his trust, gratitude, and reliance on God’s guidance. His humility, courage, and devotion set him apart as a man after God’s own heart (1 Samuel 13:14).
Legacy
David went on to become Israel’s greatest king, uniting the tribes and establishing Jerusalem as the nation’s capital. His lineage was significant, as Jesus Christ, the Messiah, was born from the house of David.

The Messiah, was born from his house