His Shield Bearer

THE QUESTION

When Goliath came out in his bronze armor to face young David, who walked in front of him?

A) The king of Gath

B) His shield bearer ✓

C) His brother

D) A Philistine priest

A closer look

Goliath came out of the Philistine camp in a bronze helmet and a coat of scale armor, carrying a spear whose shaft was like a weaver’s rod. “His shield bearer went ahead of him” (1 Samuel 17:4-7). Even as he came toward David, the shield bearer was still in front of him (1 Samuel 17:41).

David had no shield at all. He tried on King Saul’s armor, then took it off because he wasn’t used to it (1 Samuel 17:38-39). He walked out with his staff, five smooth stones and a sling, and told Goliath, “You come against me with sword and spear and javelin, but I come against you in the name of the LORD Almighty” (1 Samuel 17:40, 45).

“His brother” was a fair thought. Goliath really did have a brother, Lahmi, who fought Israel in a later battle (1 Chronicles 20:5). But on the day Goliath faced David, it was his shield bearer who walked in front of him.

Goliath needed someone to carry his shield. David trusted the Lord, his strength and his shield, just as today’s verse says (Psalm 28:7).

We hope this helped you grow in God’s Word today. Now head back to your email and tell us how you liked today’s devotional. 🙏