Bible Stories for Kids - David and Goliath

Once upon a time, a young shepherd boy named David lived in Israel. David was brave and loved God with all his heart. He had seven older brothers, but God chose David for a special purpose. 

One day, the Israelites were facing a great threat. The Philistines, their enemies, were causing trouble, and they had a giant warrior named Goliath. Goliath was so tall and strong that everyone was afraid of him. He challenged the Israelites, shouting, "Who will fight me?"

All the soldiers of Israel were scared and did not dare to fight Goliath. But David, who was just a boy, was not afraid. He knew that God would help him. He went to King Saul and said, "I will fight Goliath."

King Saul was surprised but agreed. He tried to give David heavy armor to wear, but it was too big and uncomfortable. David took it off and chose instead to trust in God and use his own skills.

David picked up his sling and five smooth stones from a stream. With just his sling and stones, he walked up to Goliath. Goliath laughed when he saw David, thinking it would be an easy win. But David was brave and said, "You come to me with a sword, but I come to you in the name of the Lord."

David put a stone in his sling, spun it around, and let it go. The stone hit Goliath right on the forehead, and the giant fell to the ground. David had won a great victory, not with size or strength, but through his faith in God.

Everyone cheered, and David became a hero that day. He showed that courage and faith in God can overcome any challenge.

Activity - Game: David's Sling Shot Challenge

Help children understand the story of David and Goliath and have fun practicing their own aim and courage.

Materials Needed:
- Small soft balls or beanbags
- Five empty plastic cups or containers
- Markers
- A clear space for playing

Instructions:
1.  Use the markers to write one letter of the word "BRAVE" on each of the plastic cups or containers. Arrange them in a line or a pyramid shape at one end of the play area.

2. Game Play:
   - Have the children stand a few feet away from the cups. This is their "sling shot" distance.
   - Give each child five tries to knock down as many cups as they can using the small soft balls or beanbags.
   - Encourage them to imagine they are like David, aiming carefully to win the game.
   - After each child has taken their turn, encourage them to cheer for each other.

3. Once everyone has had a chance to play, talk about how David didn't need a sword; he only needed what he was familiar with – his sling shot, faith, and bravery. Encourage the children to think about times when they might need to be brave and how God can help them.

Reflection Questions

1. Why do you think David was brave enough to fight Goliath?
2. How can you show courage in your own life when you face something that seems scary?
3. What do you think is the important lesson from David's story? How can you use it at school or with friends?