Read: 1 Samuel 17
David said to the men who stood by him, “What shall be done for the man who kills this Philistine, and takes away the reproach from Israel? For who is this uncircumcised Philistine that he should defy the armies of the living God?” 1 Samuel 17:26
We are told that Saul and the Israelite army were paralyzed with fear as the giant Goliath taunted them from the Philistine ranks. Goliath was huge. The Philistines’ iron swords were fearsome. For the Jewish army, the impending conflict seemed like mission impossible. However, what most saw as a daunting challenge, David saw as a wonderful opportunity. Upon seeing Goliath on the battlefield, the first thing David asked was what a man would receive if he killed Goliath. What was the reward for killing the Philistine?
So often in life, victory is claimed by people who see obstacles as opportunities for advancement. They believe that stumbling blocks are actually stepping-stones. In truth, challenges are always opportunities for growth and development. People who recognize this reality are the ones whose stories live on to inspire others.
What Goliath-sized opportunity is standing in front of you right now?
Lord, Goliath wants me to be scared. Goliath wants me to quake in my boots. Goliath wants me to take my little sling and handful of stones home in shame. I am tempted to do just that. I am scared when I think about stepping out onto the battlefield against such a formidable foe. I am afraid I will get killed. But what if staring down death is a pathway to life? What if facing down my fears is the key to my happiness? What if my battle with Goliath is the greatest opportunity I have to be all You created me to be? Give me courage to seize the opportunity in every challenge. In Jesus’ name, I pray. AMEN.