Once upon a time there was a boy who lived in the country. It was said
of him that he was "ruddy and withal of a beautiful countenance, and
goodly to look to." I think that description fits a country lad. Well,
this boy had brothers who were away from home in the army, fighting. One
day the boy's father said to him, "I wish you would go down and see how
your brothers are getting along, and take with you this present." The
boy started on his journey. Now when he came to the place where the
soldiers were encamped he saw a strange sight. A giant, from the
opposing army, came out, blustering and issuing his challenge to any one
who would dare come against him. All seemed afraid of him. Even the big,
strong soldiers would not do battle with him. Therefore this youth from
the country volunteered saying, "I will go out and fight him." They
tried to dissuade him, but he insisted. Now he was a perfect shot with
the sling. He chose five smooth stones from the brook. With one of
these he prevailed over the giant.

This lad, however, had some other things which stood him in better stead
even than the sling and the stones. What were they? First, he had
courage. He possessed what all the others lacked. Second, he had the
ability to do one thing and do that one thing well. He could use a sling
with the utmost accuracy. Third, he had confidence in himself and faith
in God. He was not conceited, no, we do not like that. Rather he had
self-confidence. Above all was this--"I come to thee in the name of the
Lord of hosts." So said the lad from the country as he went to fight the
giant. What was his name? It is a good name--David.

MEMORY VERSE, _I Samuel_ 17: 45

"Thou comest to me with a sword, and with a spear, and with a