The LORD gave David victory wherever he went (6b,13b). Biblically two things bring a person victory. First is faith (1 John 5:4,5). David always depended on God in battles, small or large, even when he was only a shepherd boy (cf. 1 Sam. 17:45-47). A person who has no faith depends on his strength and “sword, spear, and javelin” like Goliath did, but such a man fails in the long run. But David had faith that God would give him victory when he depended on him.

Second, victory comes from training. Man is both body and spirit. Just as our bodies and hands and feet become strong from training for battle, our spirits become strong due to faith (Psalm 18:33-35). Students become good students through hard work and discipline, just like soldiers do. The same rule applies in every area of our lives. A lazy person does not train, and, as result, loses battles in life.

David’s ultimate victory went beyond his victories in battlefields. He was not only a valiant general but a shepherd king for his people “doing what was just and right for all his people” (14). He was a ruler and a shepherd for his people. In this sense, he was a foreshadow of Jesus Christ (cf. Matt. 2:6).
Application: Father, thank you for giving me victories when I trust in you and receive discipline. Please help me grow as a shepherd-like leader, who wins victories for God’s flock. Amen.
One Word: Faith is the victory