1 Samuel 17:40
And he took his staff in his hand, and chose him five smooth stones out of the brook, and put them in a shepherd’s bag which he had, even in a scrip; and his sling was in his hand: and he drew near to the Philistine.
1 Samuel 17:40
David’s picking of five smooth stones and his shepherd’s bag signals preparedness and intentional simplicity. The number five may reference the five defenses or the possibility of multiple threats, but more importantly, it shows that David is ready and equipped by God for the challenge, using what he has learned in shepherding: skill with a sling, calm focus, and resourcefulness.
This passage highlights divine sovereignty in human preparation: God uses ordinary means to accomplish extraordinary ends. The stones symbolize faith-based tools—prayer, trust, courage—worked through by God’s power.
In daily life, use what you have—your time, talents, and relationships—to address big problems. Preparation matters; cultivate skills gradually, and trust God to direct their use when the moment arrives. Practically, this could mean developing a skill where you feel uncertain, then stepping into opportunities to serve or lead.
Cross-References: James 2:14-26; Luke 14:28-30; Exodus 4:2-5