Week 3
Jesse said to David, “Take this basket of roasted grain and ten loaves of bread and carry them quickly to your brothers. Give these ten cheeses to their captain. See how your brothers are doing and bring back news.” David’s brothers were with Saul and the Israelite army fighting against the Philistines in the valley of Elah.
—1 Sam. 17:17–19
David receives a new assignment—not from God directly, but from his earthly father. He’s sent as a courier to the battlefield, carrying supplies and checking in on his brothers.
This was not the first time David had walked this route. But on this particular day, Jesse urged him to move quickly. Because of this, David arrived earlier than usual—just in time to witness the moment when Goliath stepped forward to taunt Israel’s army.
Though unaware of what was unfolding (see 1 Samuel 17:1–11), David’s obedience to Jesse placed him at the right place and time for God to introduce a new quest. Sometimes, God guides us through the simple obedience of daily assignments.
Reflection Questions
What circumstances do you find yourself in now because of obedience to your calling or the roles God has placed you in?
What current quests or roles are you particularly focused on?
David was about to enter into Israel’s unresolved conflict with the Philistines. Are there any unresolved issues in your life right now? If so, what do you think God might want you to do or learn from them?
Lord, what are you teaching me in today’s reading?
Lord, what else have you said to me through thoughts, circumstances, conversations, emotions, or the work of the enemy?
Lord, what do you want me to do: At home? At work? In ministry?