1 Kingdoms (1 Samuel) 17:48Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

David approached with clarity and understanding, recognizing that mere physical power or the organization of troops held no true significance for triumph. As it is written, "a king shall not be saved by much strength, nor a giant saved by the multitude of his strength. The horse is deceitful for salvation: in the multitude of his strength he shall not be saved" (Psalms 32:16, 17).

David was never one to initiate conflict unless absolutely necessary. His bravery in combat was complemented by wisdom. Even when confronting the giant Goliath in single combat, he chose to set aside cumbersome armor, relying more on the strength of his own shoulders than on additional weapons. Thus, from a distance, to enhance the power of his throw, he managed to defeat his foe with a single stone.