David has been off by himself, separated from the current of unbelief dominating his culture, developing a rich walk with the Shepherd. David’s obscurity has protected him from the cynical spirit of the age. His public faith and private practice are in harmony. His normal is experiencing God’s presence in the valley of the shadow of death, where he has killed both lions and bears with his sling. Goliath just looks like a big bear. The result? Israel’s unbelief feels odd, out of place.
