David and Goliath: Read, Reflect, and Explore!
Picture this: You’re curled up on the couch with your child, Bible in hand, eager to share a story of courage and faith—only to watch their eyes glaze over as the words seem too ancient, too complex, too far from their world. If you’ve ever felt frustrated that the Bible feels out of reach for your kids, you’re not alone. So many of us want to pass on our faith in a way that’s real and exciting, but we wonder if the original stories are just too much for little minds to grasp. What if there was a way to bridge that gap—inviting your child into the adventure of David and Goliath, not just through picture books or videos, but by exploring the Bible itself, side by side? Imagine the discoveries you could make together. But what happens when the storybook version and the Bible don’t quite match up? Let’s dive into the heart of this story—and uncover what’s waiting when you open the Bible together
“Is my child really getting the heart of these Bible stories—or are they just memorizing the highlights?” Something we have all wondered. It’s easy to reach for the nearest storybook or click play on a video, hoping the message will stick. But sometimes those versions, while colorful and fun, skip over the parts that make the story truly powerful. You want your kids to feel the awe, the fear, the faith that David felt standing before Goliath—not just see a cartoon giant topple over. That longing to go deeper is what makes you a remarkable parent on this faith journey.
The Bible is described as “For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart.” Hebrews 4:12
When we go to a video or a storybook, we may be losing the power behind God’s word. God can work through anything, and often does. But, we want to be diligent in getting the Bible in front of our children and hiding it in their hearts.
So, how do you start? Begin by opening the Bible together—yes, the real one. Read the story of David and Goliath in 1 Samuel 17 out loud, pausing to let your child ask questions or imagine the scene. Don’t worry if you stumble over the names or if your child interrupts with, “Wait, what’s a Philistine?” That’s where the magic happens. Every question is a doorway to curiosity, and every pause is an invitation to wonder together. You’re not just reading; you’re exploring a living story, side by side.
Afterward, grab your favorite story Bible or find a David and Goliath video online. Read or watch, then ask: “What’s different? What did the video leave out? Did the storybook add anything new?”
You might notice the storybook skips David’s conversations with his brothers, or the video turns the battle into a quick cartoon moment. These differences are golden opportunities for conversation. Why do you think the creators changed the story? What do you think really happened? These questions help your child become a thoughtful reader—and a seeker of truth.
As you compare each David and Goliath version, you may feel a twinge of frustration—why can’t the storybook just tell it straight? But remember, your child is learning to spot what’s real and what’s “just for fun.” That’s a skill they’ll use for life, not just with Bible stories but with everything they read or watch. And you’re modeling how to wrestle with big questions, showing them that faith isn’t about having all the answers, but about seeking them together.
Ready to make this experience even richer? Download our free David and Goliath activity sheet for creative prompts, coloring pages, and discussion starters. These tools will help your child reflect on what they’ve learned and express their thoughts in their own unique way. Because the real victory isn’t just in knowing the story—it’s in discovering, together, what it means for your family today
Download Your Free Activity Sheet!
Keep exploring the story with coloring pages, worksheets, and games! Download your free David and Goliath activity sheet to help you remember what you learned and have fun at home or in class!
Remember: The Bible tells us the full story, and reading it for ourselves helps us discover new things every time. David trusted God, and you can too—no matter how big your challenges are!
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