1.

Of David it is written, the Word is plain and true,
He took five little stones, and Goliath soon he slew.
The faith of David triumphed; that mighty giant fell.
From shame and wrath and woe he thus rescued Israèl.

2.

Young David was a fighter in covenant with God.
He let his faith be known; underfoot contempt he trod.
Ten thousand Philistines in one battle David slew.
This feat, the song of women—it strengthens faith anew.

3.

The men who saw the need and with burdens were weighed down,
Embittered and disturbed by conditions that they found,
Were chosen by King David; and with such fearsome men
All Israèl he cleansed and was therefore called God’s friend.

4.

We also can feel burdened and have great need today
When through the mount of flesh we would go the living way.
’Tis then that such men find: in the camp they don’t belong.
Outside the camp with Jesus they sing the victor’s song.

5.

When David had grown old and his fighting days were done,
King Solomon he chose, and he thus did charge his son:
“Slay Joab, do not spare him; remember what I’ve said,
For in the times of peace he the blood of war has shed.
(1 Kings 2)

6.

“Put Shimei to death who, before the fight was won,
Did curse me to my face as I fled from Absalom.
My son, rule now with wisdom; condemn this man you must.
Avenge the Lord’s anointed, for this is right and just.”

7.

That righteousness be done was King David’s one intent,
And never with his foes did he make a covenant.
The purposes of God were by David’s hand fulfilled.
From Dan unto Beersheba the people safely dwelled.

8.

What can we learn from David? you’d like me now to say.
Just drink the cup of suff’rings; you’ll learn it in this way.
With “ifs” and “buts” so many, the flesh would compromise;
If you would be God’s friend, then condemn it so it dies.

9.

Upon King David’s throne Christ the Lord is seated now.
All Satan’s hosts He’ll conquer, and every knee shall bow.
We see Him in the Spirit, ’gainst sin prepared to fight—
Upon the cross, triumphant o’er Satan and his might.

10.

Deep peace will fill your heart as you slay each enemy.
The light of truth will shine, and from truth each lie must flee.
The citizens of heaven—yes, David’s mighty men—
Gird up their loins with truth, and for peace they fight again.

Written in 1918 by Johan O. Smith (published in 1920)Composed by Jørgen P. Santonreshaped melodyText © Stiftelsen Skjulte Skatters ForlagNorway ⋅ C