The story of David and Goliath is one of the best-known stories in the scriptures. Of course, we usually focus on David. But this time, as you study 1 Samuel 17, ponder also the words of other people in this chapter (see the list below). What do you learn about them and their motives? What do you learn about David? How is he different?

• Goliath: verses 8–10, 43–44

• Eliab: verse 28

• Saul: verse 33

• David: verses 26, 32, 34–37, 39, 45–47

Your story, though not as well-known as David’s, is sure to include Goliath-size challenges to overcome and opportunities to exercise faith in the Lord. What does David’s example teach you about facing the adversity in your story? You might also read President Camille N. Johnson’s message “Invite Christ to Author Your Story” (Liahona, Nov. 2021, 80–82) with one of your challenges in mind. Look for answers to questions like these: How does the Lord want me to view my challenges? How has He helped me in the past? How can I show that I trust Him to write my story?

You may already know that there are some tragic chapters later in David’s story (see, for example, 2 Samuel 11). If you had the opportunity to give David some advice after his battle with Goliath, what would you say? How might this advice apply to your life?

See also “The Lord Will Deliver Me” (video), Gospel Library.

In addition to personal challenges, we also face large, complex problems that affect the whole world. When forces of evil are “gathered together … to battle” against the forces of good (1 Samuel 17:1), we might wonder how our individual efforts could possibly make a difference. What do you find in David’s story that gives you hope? Sister Andrea M. Spannaus taught that the five stones David carried into his battle with Goliath could represent things we need to win our spiritual battles. Read her message “Faithful to the End” (Liahona, May 2024, 59–61). How can you access these sources of strength in your life?

See also “Let Us All Press On,” Hymns, no. 243.

As you read 1 Samuel 18, consider contrasting Saul and his son Jonathan (who, if not for David, could have assumed he would be the next king). How did Saul and Jonathan react to David’s success? What can you learn from this experience?

What do you find in Jonathan’s attitudes and actions that reminds you of Jesus Christ?

In 1 Samuel 24–26, look for lessons about pride, forgiveness, and self-control. You might also consider reading Elder Mark A. Bragg’s message “Christlike Poise” as part of your study (Liahona, May 2023, 60–63). How did David, Abigail, and others demonstrate—or fail to demonstrate—Christlike poise in these chapters? What opportunities do you have to show Christlike poise?

Sister Kristen Yee’s message “Beauty for Ashes: The Healing Path of Forgiveness” (Liahona, Nov. 2022, 36–39) can help you study 1 Samuel 25. How is Abigail like Jesus Christ?

Even after David defeated Goliath, his problems with the Philistines were not over. As you read 2 Samuel 5:17–25, consider how David’s example can help you in the challenges you face (see also 1 Samuel 23:2, 10–11; 30:8; 2 Samuel 2:1). How are you being blessed by acting on the revelation you receive?

When David offered to build a house, meaning a temple, for the Lord (see 2 Samuel 7:1–3), the Lord responded that David’s son would build it (see verses 12–15; see also 1 Chronicles 17:1–15). The Lord also said that He in turn would build David a “house,” meaning a posterity, and that his throne would last forever (see 2 Samuel 7:11, 16, 25–29; Psalm 89:3–4, 35–37). This promise was fulfilled in Jesus Christ, our Eternal King, who was a descendant of David (see Matthew 1:1; Luke 1:32–33; John 18:33–37).