One of the most famous stories in all of Holy Writ comes from 1 Samuel 17. David, a young shepherd boy defeats Goliath, the huge giant. Children could tell it in detail, preachers have taught on it, and articles have been published about it. We are like David, in that we face and have our own giants. While not in comparison physically, we do face giant spiritually. From this wonderful chapter, what does David teach us about our combat with sin and Satan? What must we learn in order to combat our Goliath?
Our giant is powerful (1 Samuel 17:4). Goliath was over nine feet tall. He towered over most if not all men of both camps. His might intimidated the Israelites (17:11, 24). Like Goliath, Satan is powerful. He is good at what he does and will overpower us if we are not prepared. He wins souls every day to his side by tempting them to indulge in sin. In order to combat our Goliath, we must be educated about him. We must know how he works (2 Corinthians 2:11), what methods he uses (1 John 2:16), and what his motives are (1 Peter 5:8). We cannot begin to push aside his great influence or believe him to be less powerful than what Scripture says he is. Goliath could have hurt many. We cannot, nay, we must not underestimate the power of Satan.
Sometimes there are smaller giants against us (1 Samuel 17:28). Satan is not the only giant set in battle against us. Others stand opposed on the other side of the valley ready to harm, accuse, or defame us. David’s brother falsely accused him of something David had not done. We must be ready to combat outside influences from others. This may include enemies, co-workers, employees, friends, and maybe even family. Despite these threats, accusations, or harms, we cannot let it detract from our goal. Like Paul who faced the Judaizers or Jesus who stood up to His opposers, we must strive to overcome them and keep on keeping.
Goliath can be defeated despite your age (1 Samuel 17:33-34). Youth are often looked upon as immature people who cannot do anything for God. While with some this is true, David teaches us it does not have to be. In fact, David is the defense attorney for the successful work of youth in the church! David was but a youth (maybe 17) and because of that Saul assumed David could not defeat the Philistine. However, we learn that it does not matter one’s age, Goliath can be defeated. It is often said, “youth is a time for sin, a time for experience, or a time for exposure.” Instead, youth are told to “Remember now thy Creator in the days of thy youth” (Ecclesiastes 12:1) and to “let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example” (1 Timothy 4:12). Youth are commanded to flee sin (2 Timothy 2:22) and it is possible. Daniel and Joseph teach us that. Goliath’s defeat is not based upon one’s age, but upon one’s willingness to fight. If someone says to you that you cannot do it (cf. 1 Samuel 17:42-44), like David, bring up examples of past battles (1 Samuel 17:34-36), showing them you can. God knows you can, so keep on fighting.
Remember God is the real victor (1 Samuel 17:45-51). God was the true hero and David was just the tool. We must remember our victory of Satan comes not by physical weapons (2 Corinthians 10:4) or by our own physical strength. By submission to God, adherence to His will, and sacrifice, we too, like David can overcome our Goliath. David knew who fought WITH him and FOR him. Remember, God doesn’t need physical weapons to win. All He needs is a submissive heart, a godly soul, and a soldier who puts on His armor (Ephesians 6:11).
Goliath is intimidating, but he can be overcome with the help of the true Giant. Goliath stands before us with his sword and shield, but we have our own sword and shield (Ephesians 6:16-17). Will you stand prepared and victorious against your Goliath?
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