“As the Philistine moved closer to attack him, David ran quickly toward the battle line to meet him.49 Reaching into his bag and taking out a stone, he slung it and struck the Philistine on the forehead. The stone sank into his forehead, and he fell facedown on the ground. 50 So David triumphed over the Philistine with a sling and a stone; without a sword in his hand he struck down the Philistine and killed him. 51 David ran and stood over him. He took hold of the Philistine’s sword and drew it from the sheath. After he killed him, he cut off his head with the sword.” 1 Samuel 17.48-51
It’s what we have all been waiting for: Luke Skywalker against Darth Vader. It’s good against evil, light against darkness. David slays the giant Goliath.
When the moment of attack finally comes, the Philistine moves closer, but David runs quickly toward the battle. David reaches for a weapon—a fist-sized rock at best—and placing it in his sling, he hurls it, striking Goliath on the forehead and knocking him out. A less brave man might call for another to finish the job, but David does it all himself, in the power of the Lord. He takes the Philistine’s sword, kills him with it, and then cuts off his head. And it is complete.
What are the odds that David could deliver a knockout blow with one stone to the forehead? This giant of a man surely wore the finest armor, including a helmet. But God sent the rock exactly where it needed to go. In the meantime, God raised up a hero from among the people.
David did all of this in the name of the Lord Almighty, with confidence, power, and might. His attack defeated the insolent enemy and elevated God’s people to a place of victory.
It’s unlikely that many of us will serve in battle or face this kind of physical threat. Perhaps this resonates more with our veterans—for whom we give thanks. However, we will all face spiritual, emotional, and mental attacks. Our response must be to place ourselves directly in the will of God and move forward with confidence, for God is our strength and shield.
“O Lord God, you are good and mighty. You are faithful and just. Thank you for loving all who love you. Thank you for initiating that love so we might love you in return. Come now, Holy Spirit; fill us with your power. Help us to know the truth of who you are and walk according to your ways. When we face difficulty, help us to keep our eyes on you. I love you, Lord, and praise your name, for you are good and your love endures forever.” Amen.