David Friend began his education at Phoenix College but was interrupted by serving in the military in Vietnam. Upon returning to the United States and completing his service, he graduated from Phoenix College.

He studied finance and lending at Western Bancor. He worked as a part-time instructor in banking at seven community colleges in Arizona.

While working at First National Bank and First Interstate Bank from 1969 to 1984, he served as Operations Officer and Branch Manager, Commercial Lender, Vice-President and Regional Manager and State Retail Sales Manager.

David was a Vice President and in partnership with a real estate development company for three years.

He then owned and operated his own development firm, Dave Friend Homes, from 1987 to 1997.

In 1997, he went into full time ministry at Phoenix First Assembly. He was ordained in 1998 and started a new church called North Scottsdale Christian. As Senior Pastor, the Lord blessed the church with over 2,000 members. In 2015, North Scottsdale Christian merged with Phoenix First Assembly, now Dream City Church.

Currently, David serves as a board member with Dream City Church. He is mentoring businessmen and speaks on finance and prayer.

David has served as a board member with Teen Challenge, Grand Canyon University Foundation, Tucson Salvation Army, and several churches.

He resides in Scottsdale Arizona with his wife, Sharon. Together, they have two married children and six grandchildren.