Week 3 June: The Battle Is the Lord’s

 

Week 3 June: The Battle Is the Lord’s

1 Samuel 17–18; 24–26; 2 Samuel 5–7

Ever since the Israelites settled in the promised land, the Philistines threatened their safety. The elders wanted a king to lead and fight their battles (1 Samuel 8:19–20), so Saul was anointed. But when Goliath challenged Israel, Saul and his army were “greatly afraid” (1 Samuel 17:11).

David, a humble shepherd, wore no armor but had unwavering faith in the Lord. He defeated Goliath, showing Israel—and us—that “the Lord saveth not with sword and spear” and “the battle is the Lord’s” (1 Samuel 17:47).

Even when problems continue, like David’s later struggles with Saul and the Philistines, the Lord gives guidance and direction (2 Samuel 5:17–25). His promises, including the eternal kingdom through Jesus Christ (2 Samuel 7; Matthew 1:1; Luke 1:32–33), remind us that He reigns forever.

Teaching Ideas for Families

1. Courage Through Faith
Read 1 Samuel 17:20–54 together. Talk about how David faced a giant with faith in the Lord.

Activity idea: Let children march like David while singing a song about courage, such as “I Will Be Valiant” (Children’s Songbook, 162). Then discuss challenges in their lives and how faith can help them overcome obstacles.

2. Friendship and Love
Read 1 Samuel 18:1–4 about Jonathan and David’s friendship. Compare Saul’s jealousy to Jonathan’s loyalty.

Activity idea: Give each child two paper hearts, one for David and one for Jonathan. Write or draw ways they can show love and support to a friend.

3. Asking for Guidance
Read 2 Samuel 5:19, 23. Discuss how David “inquired” of the Lord before battles.

Activity idea: Pretend to be a king or queen making decisions. When children hear the word “inquired,” have them fold their arms and think of a question they could ask Heavenly Father. Talk about times when prayer guided them.

4. Jesus Christ Is Eternal King
Read 2 Samuel 7:16–17. Explain how Jesus, a descendant of David, is our eternal King. Compare Jesus’ perfect and lasting kingdom to earthly kings.

Activity idea: Make a crown craft and decorate it. Write or draw ways we can honor Jesus as our Eternal King.

Preschool Add-On

Letter of the Week: D for David
Number: 5 (David was the fifth son in his family)
Shape: Triangle (representing the tip of David’s sling or mountain)
Color: Blue (symbolizing trust and courage)

Sight Words: I, can, trust, God

Tracing Sentences:
I can trust God.
God helps me be brave.

Math Connection:
Use 5 small objects (like pebbles or blocks) to act as stones David could have picked for his sling. Count them: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5. Add and subtract: 5 − 2 = 3, 2 + 3 = 5.

Reading Connection:
Read a short story about courage. Ask, “What would David do?” or “How can I be brave like David?” Encourage your child to point to sight words they know.

Craft Idea:
Make “David’s Sling.” Cut a strip of paper, attach a small paper pouch, and place a paper stone inside. Talk about how faith can help us face challenges bigger than ourselves.

Early Elementary Add-On

Reading & Writing Extension:
Write a journal entry: “One Time I Trusted God.” Encourage children to describe a time they felt the Lord helped them be brave.

Math Connection:
Create “Goliath’s Giants.” Draw 10 giant shapes and number them 1–10. Practice addition and subtraction:

  • 10 giants − 3 defeated = 7 giants left.

  • 4 giants + 2 more = 6 total.

Art or Reflection Project:
Make a “Faith Shield.” Draw a shield and decorate it with examples of courage, trust, prayer, and faith—qualities David demonstrated. Display it as a reminder that the Lord fights our battles with us.

Family Thought:
Faith in Jesus Christ gives us courage to face giants, challenges, and fears. Just as David trusted the Lord to deliver Israel, we can trust Him in our personal battles, knowing that the Lord’s power is greater than any obstacle.

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