DAVID

Battling A Lion and A Bear

The morning sun was just beginning to spread its warmth over the hills of Bethlehem as David stirred awake. He rose with an eagerness that made each morning feel fresh, even after countless days spent in the fields. Today, as always, he prepared to guide his father’s sheep through the familiar paths. He reached for his bag, filling it with bread, a small flask of water, and his sling, a simple but trusted tool. His harp, polished smooth from years of use, was tucked in the strap at his side. These were all he needed for the day ahead.

As David finished packing, his father, Jesse, approached with a solemn look. Jesse laid a hand on David’s shoulder, looking at him with a mix of pride and concern. He was proud of David's diligence and faithfulness but knew the dangers that could lurk in the wild.

“May the Lord protect you today, David,” Jesse said softly, his hand firm on his son’s shoulder. He closed his eyes and offered a prayer of blessing, invoking God’s protection over his youngest son. David listened intently, his heart swelling with peace. When the prayer ended, Jesse’s eyes met his, and David could see the love and pride his father held for him.

“Thank you, Father,” David replied, smiling brightly. With that, he turned and began his walk to the hills, a lightness in his steps. The fields stretched wide under the morning light, the air filled with the scent of wild grass and flowers. His sheep followed obediently, a familiar flock he had tended to since they were lambs. As he guided them, David began to sing, his voice lifting in a melody that filled the hills with praise to God.

After a while, David found a good, sheltered spot for the sheep to graze—a clearing near a cluster of trees that offered shade from the rising sun. He positioned the flock, watching as they scattered to graze, their heads bent to the soft grass. Satisfied that they were safe, he settled under one of the large trees, pulling out his harp. His fingers brushed across the strings, the soft notes joining his voice as he sang praises to God. His songs were filled with gratitude, awe, and trust, a natural outpouring of his heart.

For a time, David was lost in his music, the melody weaving through the trees and blending with the gentle rustling of the wind. But then, in the midst of his song, he sensed something amiss. A flicker of movement caught his eye, just beyond the edge of the clearing. His gaze sharpened, his senses alert. He narrowed his eyes, focusing on a shape moving stealthily through the grass.

As he watched, his heart froze for a moment. A lion. The creature was low to the ground, its body moving with deadly intent, every muscle taut and ready to spring. It was advancing towards the sheep, its eyes fixed on its target.

David's heart hammered in his chest, but fear quickly gave way to a fierce determination. These sheep were under his care, entrusted to him by his father, and he was not about to let one of them fall prey to this lion. With quick, steady hands, he reached for his sling, loading it with a smooth stone. His fingers were sure, his movements honed from years of practice.

Without hesitation, David rose to his feet, his eyes fixed on the lion. He knew he had to act quickly before the lion could reach the sheep. He took a deep breath, steadying his nerves. Then, with practiced skill, he swung the sling, releasing the stone with precision.

The stone flew through the air and struck the lion squarely on the head. The lion paused, stunned, but only for a moment. With a furious roar, it turned its gaze upon David, its eyes flashing with anger. David’s pulse quickened, but he held his ground. This was no time to back down. He knew the lion would not be easily deterred, and he would have to face it head-on.

As the lion advanced, David quickly drew another stone from his bag and loaded it into his sling. He swung it again, aiming carefully, and released. This second stone struck the lion, slowing it further, but it only seemed to fuel its rage. The lion charged, and David braced himself, holding his staff tightly in one hand as the beast closed the distance.