David vs. Goliath: Stick-to-it-tiveness

The story of David and Goliath is so common that many of us read through it and only take out of it what is obvious and familiar. This morning, in my Bible reading, the Holy Spirit gave me something more on which to dwell. In I Samuel 17, David left his sheep to check up on his brothers in battle only to have Eliab, his oldest brother, belittle and discourage him. In verse 33, Saul offers his own discouragement and says, "Thou art not able to go against this Philistine." In verse 39, Saul's armor discourages David. Lastly, Goliath himself discourages David and says, "Am I a dog, that thou comest to me with staves?" His King, his family, his security and his foe offered David little encouragement, yet we find his confidence came from the LORD. Verses 45-46 say, "I will come to thee in the name of the LORD of hosts," and "This day will the LORD deliver thee into mine hand."

So often, I try to take refuge in my own ability. I must remember that when I am discouraged by the people and things closest to me, it is then I must claim the name of the LORD. David sums it all up in verse 47, "And all this assembly shall know that the LORD saveth not with sword and spear: for the battle is the LORD'S and he will give you into our hands."

I must be resolute. I must have a little "stick-to-it-tiveness." I must not let discouragement derail my efforts to rely on Him to win my battles for me.

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