Stone 5 = worship. David wrote and sang worship songs from a heart full of hope in God. David knew God loved Him and His people. David understood the power of words and dialogue; he knew it was okay to tell God exactly how he felt. We also see throughout the Psalms (found in the Old Testament section of the Bible) that David most often finished his times of lamenting, pouring his heart and feelings out to God with words of worship. Words that spoke of God’s faithfulness, His majesty and might; words that spoke of God being worthy of honour, words that thanked and worshipped Him for who He is. This reminded David and us that God is for us. This worship of God positioned David to cultivate a soft heart toward God and His ways and to see things through God’s eyes. This, in turn, assured David that this current battle with Goliath would end in victory (1 Samuel 17:37 & 45-46). David declared that through his success, many others would also come to know and praise the living God (read V47). David knew this battle was God’s, and where others were looking to a king (Saul), David’s eyes and heart were focused on the King of kings.

Pause and consider: Often, we feel as though we can only tell God nice things. We may have learned the ‘rule’ – if you can’t say something nice, say nothing, and we don’t realise that God wants us to pour out our joys, as well as our griefs, sorrows and lamenting to Him. Our words poured out to God help us to know Him more deeply, to know His acceptance of us – just precisely as we are – and this, in turn, positions us to worship Him with a heart that knows His love and acceptance. We learn that He is for us and loves us beyond measure, giving us the courage to face the battles with Him and in His name.

What are three things you can thank God for today?