The Heart of a Shepherd


David said, “I’ve been a shepherd, tending sheep for my father. Whenever a lion or bear came and took a lamb from the flock, I’d go after it, knock it down, and rescue the lamb. ... And I’ll do the same to this Philistine pig who is taunting the troops of God. [1Samuel 17:34-36 MSG]

I love the type of person that God chose to fight the giant. Not a seasoned warrior but a shepherd boy. Not one trained in the art of war but one seasoned in the art of caring for helpless animals. Though similarities exist, the warrior and the shepherd are very different. One attacks. One defends.

As David speaks to King Saul we hear the heart of a shepherd. One who cares more about the safety of his flock than his own safety. One who understands the call to defend the helpless. A person who understand what it means to love sacrificially. Such is the one who is called to fight giants.

Lord, help us to develop the heart of a shepherd that we might defend those who are the weakest among us.


... this devotion is part of a series about King David.

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