1 Samuel 17:18

Take also these ten portions of cheese to the commander of their unit. Check on the welfare of your brothers and bring back an assurance from them.

Study Bible

Also take these ten portions of cheese
In the ancient Near Eastern context, cheese was a valuable commodity, often made from goat's or sheep's milk. The Hebrew word for cheese here is "חֲרִיצֵי" (charitzei), which can refer to slices or portions. This offering of cheese signifies a gesture of goodwill and sustenance, reflecting the importance of hospitality and provision in biblical times. It underscores the practical care and concern for those in military service, highlighting the familial and communal support that was vital for the morale and sustenance of soldiers.

to the commander of their unit
The term "commander" in Hebrew is "שַׂר" (sar), meaning a leader or prince. This indicates a person of authority and responsibility within the military hierarchy. The act of giving cheese to the commander not only serves as a gesture of respect but also as a strategic move to ensure favor and protection for David's brothers. It reflects the structured nature of ancient armies and the importance of maintaining good relations with those in leadership positions.

Check on the welfare of your brothers
The phrase "welfare of your brothers" translates from the Hebrew "שָׁלוֹם" (shalom), which encompasses peace, well-being, and completeness. David's mission to check on his brothers' shalom highlights the deep familial bonds and the duty of care that family members had for one another. It also reflects the broader biblical theme of community and the interconnectedness of individuals within God's covenant people.

and bring back a token from them
The word "token" in Hebrew is "עֲרֻבָּה" (arubbah), which can mean a pledge or guarantee. This request for a token serves as a tangible proof of his brothers' well-being, providing assurance to their father, Jesse. It underscores the importance of communication and accountability within families, especially during times of conflict. This act of bringing back a token also symbolizes the trust and responsibility placed upon David, foreshadowing his future role as a leader who would bear the concerns of his people.

Persons / Places / Events

1. David
The youngest son of Jesse, who is tasked with delivering food to his brothers and checking on their welfare. This task sets the stage for his encounter with Goliath.

2. Jesse
David's father, who sends David to the battlefield with provisions for his brothers and their commander.

3. David's Brothers
They are part of the Israelite army facing the Philistines. David is sent to check on their well-being.

4. Commander of their Thousand
A military leader responsible for a unit of a thousand soldiers, to whom David is to deliver cheese.

5. Israelite Camp
The location where the Israelite army is encamped, facing the Philistine threat, including Goliath.

Teaching Points

Obedience in Small Tasks
David's willingness to obey his father's seemingly mundane request demonstrates faithfulness in small tasks, which God often uses to prepare us for greater responsibilities.

God's Providence
This verse illustrates how God orchestrates events behind the scenes. David's simple errand leads to his pivotal role in defeating Goliath, showing that God uses ordinary circumstances for His purposes.

Concern for Others
Jesse's concern for his sons' well-being is a model for us to care for and check on the welfare of those around us, reflecting God's love and care.

Preparation for Greater Challenges
David's task of delivering food and checking on his brothers is a step in his preparation for facing Goliath. God often uses everyday tasks to prepare us for future challenges.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does David's obedience to his father's request reflect his character, and what can we learn from this about our own response to authority?

2. In what ways does this passage demonstrate God's providence in orchestrating events for His purposes? Can you think of a time in your life when a small task led to a significant outcome?

3. How does Jesse's concern for his sons' well-being challenge us to be more attentive to the needs of those around us?

4. What parallels can you draw between David's errand and other biblical accounts where God uses ordinary circumstances for extraordinary purposes?

5. How can we apply the principle of being faithful in small tasks to our daily lives, and what might God be preparing us for through these tasks?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 37
Joseph is also sent by his father to check on his brothers, which leads to significant events in his life. This parallel highlights themes of obedience and divine orchestration.

Proverbs 27:23
This verse emphasizes the importance of knowing the state of one's flocks, paralleling Jesse's concern for his sons' welfare.

John 6:9-11
The provision of food in a time of need, as seen in the feeding of the 5,000, reflects God's provision and care, similar to David's delivery of food.