1 Samuel 17:12-15

David was the son of that Ephrathite, &c. Being chosen of God to combat with Goliath, we are here informed of whom he was descended. The man went among men Was accounted; an old man Therefore he went not himself to the camp. David was the youngest Being young, he was not put to the hardships of war; but the three eldest undertook to serve their prince and their country in this time of common danger. David went and returned from Saul Left his court, with his permission, for the present. Probably he returned upon his father's sending his three eldest sons into Saul's service. Having been instrumental in relieving Saul, he was not now particularly wanted at court, but probably was wanted to feed his father's sheep, and might be sent for again when occasion should require.