August 30, 2024
by Pastor Chuck SwindollScriptures: 1 Samuel 17:50
GOLIATH REMINDS ME OF the cross-eyed discus thrower. He didn't set many records . . . but he sure kept the crowd awake!
GOLIATH REMINDS ME OF the cross-eyed discus thrower. He didn't set many
records . . . but he sure kept the crowd awake!
Paralyzed and hypnotized, the camp of the Israelites sat in their tents.
The only noise heard from their side of the valley was the knocking of
their knees—in unison. Goliath was, up to that point, eminently successful
with his strategy of intimidation. His threats came with regularity every
day, producing the desired result—fear.
Some ten miles away a handsome, muscular teenager—the runt in a family of
eight boys—was sent on an errand by his father. That innocent errand proved
to be an epochal event in Jewish history. Fresh from the sheep and, more
importantly, from the awesome presence of God, David stopped and stared in
disbelief when he reached the battleground. He decided to act. With a
well-worn leather sling and a smooth stone—and unbending confidence in his
mighty God—David introduced Goliath and all the Philistines to the Lord of
hosts . . . whose name they had blasphemed long enough.
David triumphed over the Philistine with only a sling and a stone, for he
had no sword.
1 SAMUEL 17:50
What an interesting counterstrategy! It is pregnant with practical truth
for today, and I wish to deliver twin thoughts.
Prevailing over giants isn't accomplished by using their technique. David's
greatest piece of armor was his inner shield of faith. It kept him from
fear; it made him hard of listening; it gave him composure amid chaos.
Conquering giants isn't accomplished without great skill and discipline. To
be God's warrior demands much more expertise and control than one can
imagine. Using the sling and stone of the Spirit is far more delicate a
thing than swinging the club of the flesh.
Are you facing a giant? Is the intimidation reaching unbearable
proportions? Don't run . . . but don't try a bigger club either! Turn your
Goliath over to Jehovah, the giant-killer. Explain to the Lord how anxious
you are for Him to win this victory for a change—not the giant . . . nor
you.