“Goliath stood and shouted to the ranks of Israel, “Why do you come out and line up for battle? Am I not a Philistine, and are you not the servants of Saul? Choose a man and have him come down to me. 9 If he is able to fight and kill me, we will become your subjects; but if I overcome him and kill him, you will become our subjects and serve us.” 10 Then the Philistine said, “This day I defy the armies of Israel! Give me a man and let us fight each other.” 11 On hearing the Philistine’s words, Saul and all the Israelites were dismayed and terrified. 12 Now David was the son of an Ephrathite named Jesse, who was from Bethlehem in Judah. Jesse had eight sons, and in Saul’s time he was very old.13 Jesse’s three oldest sons had followed Saul to the war: The firstborn was Eliab; the second, Abinadab; and the third, Shammah. 14 David was the youngest. The three oldest followed Saul, 15 but David went back and forth from Saul to tend his father’s sheep at Bethlehem. 16 For forty days the Philistine came forward every morning and evening and took his stand.” 1 Samuel 17.8-16
When I hear this challenge from Goliath and witness the fear it strikes within the Israelites, I feel embarrassed. Was there not a single warrior among them willing to fight and stand against the enemies of God? Yet, on the other hand, I must admit I wouldn’t be the one to step forward to face the giant. I lack both the skill and the courage.
But the Israelites were fighting men—soldiers to the core. Yet not one of them was willing to step forward to defend their country, their reputation, or the Lord. Upon hearing Goliath’s challenge, they were all dismayed and terrified!
Three of Jesse’s sons had followed Saul to the battle, but not David. Why would he? He was the youngest of eight, tasked with tending sheep, and would travel back and forth to the front lines to serve his older brothers. Goliath’s challenge went on for forty days—every morning and evening. How disheartening, discouraging, and sad that not one man among them rose to accept it.
Sometimes, we find ourselves in a similar situation—facing giants, battling impossible odds, and feeling too weak to carry on. It might be a significant challenge, like running a business, or something as simple yet overwhelming as getting out of bed every day. Each challenge is unique to us, and the odds often feel insurmountable.
The Israelite soldiers undoubtedly felt the impossibility of their situation. How could they ever defeat Goliath? How could they stand against a giant? Little did they know, God would send a boy to defeat Goliath, empowered by the Spirit of the Lord. In our own strength, we will fail every time. But with the Lord, we can accomplish all things when we put our trust in His word.
So today, trust God to fight your battles. Allow Him to go before you. No matter what giants you face, remember that the Lord is greater still.
“O Lord God, life brings many challenges. I thank You for allowing me to face them with You. When my strength fades, Your strength remains steadfast. Come now, Holy Spirit, and fill me with Your power and love. Help me become the person You have called and created me to be. By Your grace and for Your glory. For You are good, and Your love endures forever.” Amen.