Drop the Stone

Sometimes, the most ordinary things carry extraordinary purpose. A small, smooth stone isn’t flashy or impressive—yet in the hands of someone who believes God, it can bring down a giant. That stone can represent your faith, your voice, your generosity, or your obedience. It may seem insignificant, but in God's hands, it’s loaded with potential.

This is the heart of the new series, Ripple Effect—a reminder that one act of obedience can echo through generations. And there’s no better example to start with than a teenage shepherd boy who said yes to God, and whose single act of courage changed the course of a nation.

The Story of David and Goliath

The passage in 1 Samuel 17:32-50 (NIV) recounts how David, a young shepherd, stepped forward to face Goliath when no one else would. While everyone else saw an impossible situation, David saw an opportunity to trust God.

King Saul doubted David’s ability, saying, “You are not able to go out against this Philistine and fight him; you are only a young man.” But David responded by sharing how he had defended his sheep from lions and bears. These moments in the field weren’t just about protecting livestock—they were God’s preparation ground for something greater.

David’s courage didn’t come from the battlefield. It came from private obedience. While no one was watching, God was strengthening him for what was ahead.

Your Size Doesn’t Determine Your Impact

David wasn’t the oldest or strongest. He wasn’t a soldier. In fact, his role was simply to deliver lunch to his brothers at the frontline.

“Take this basket of roasted grain and these ten loaves of bread, and carry them quickly to your brothers.”

– 1 Samuel 17:17 (NLT)

In modern terms, David was doing a delivery run—something small and seemingly insignificant. Yet, divine purpose doesn’t ask for permission. God can use any moment, no matter how mundane, to bring about something meaningful.

Prepared in the Field, Not the Spotlight

David’s qualifications weren’t found in Saul’s armor or on the battlefield, but in his faithful service in obscurity. He fought off predators alone, relying on God’s strength. Those hidden moments were the real training ground.

God prepares you in private before He uses you in public.

We often desire visible results without investing in the invisible work. But the most transformative seasons of growth often happen in quiet, unseen places—the "basement" seasons. These are the moments that form our character and deepen our dependence on God.

If you feel like you’re in a hidden season, take heart. God is working in you and through you. Your unseen obedience is building a visible legacy.

Faith Sparks Action in Others

After David slayed Goliath with a single stone, the once-paralyzed Israelite army responded.

“Then the men of Israel and Judah gave a great shout of triumph and rushed after the Philistines...”

– 1 Samuel 17:52 (NLT)

One act of faith unleashed collective courage. David’s victory gave others the confidence to step forward in faith as well. Your victory becomes permission for others to believe again.

You never know who is watching. When you take your shot—when you step forward in faith—it inspires others to do the same. Your obedience could be the ripple effect that reignites hope in someone else’s life.

The Greatest Ripple of All

David dropped a stone and brought down a giant. But centuries later, Jesus laid down something even greater—His life. He didn’t come to defeat a physical enemy, but to conquer sin, shame, and death.

His obedience on the cross became the greatest ripple the world has ever known. And its impact continues to echo today.

“Not my will, but Yours be done.” —Luke 22:42

As we remember the Lord’s Supper, we reflect on the moment Jesus released His obedience not just with words, but through His body and blood. His sacrifice continues to change lives—ours included.