Sometimes the most well-known stories in the Bible can be
the more difficult to interpret and apply BECAUSE they are so familiar. Yet,
perhaps we can find something fresh and new here. If not, let's not lose sight
of the old spiritual lessons that should be obvious.
Now, in the last chapter we left David standing in a royal
place holding Saul's shield... or playing a harp. However, I Samuel 17:15 tells
us that David did not stay with Saul. He returned home to take care of his
father's sheep. Meanwhile Saul went to war again against an attacking force of
Philistines. Among the soldiers on the Philistine side was a strong man who was
almost 10 feet tall. Alone, this giant named Goliath struck fear into the
hearts of the Jews. But, Goliath was
nothing more than an opportunity for God to manifest His power and to catapult
David into a prominent position in the nation.
There are many interesting subthemes in this story. David's
interaction with his brothers, with Goliath, with Saul... it's all very
interesting. How about David's willingness to attempt to go in Saul's armor
(which he would have been very familiar with... as Saul’s former armor bearer)?
The return of David with Goliath's head in his hand after the battle; there's a
mind boggling scene. But what is the most basic lesson to be learned here? Here
it is: faith in God and spiritual courage can bring victory over any enemy, no
matter what the odds.
David came upon the battle scene innocently. But, when he
heard the blasphemy of Goliath and realized that nobody was doing anything
about it, he volunteered. And, with just a staff, a sling and some stones,
David went out alone to conquer Israel's foe. And, conquer he did. Not only that,
but the whole army of Israel took courage after the decapitation of Goliath and
so they too went forward into battle (after having remained for many weeks
previously in cowardice and fear).
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