> Reflections

12/02/2013 - You and the Giant

Machado

It all began when David arrived at the battle between the Israelites and the Philistines. While he was talking with his brethren, Goliath the giant showed up, threatening the army of Israel. So threatened by the giant, all of Israel’s army got scared and ran away. From that point on, we can see how David dealt with the situation, and thus how one should behave if one wants to be a winner. If you still don’t know this passage from the Bible, read I Samuel 17. 12-54

1) Keep your eye on the reward: When David heard that King Saul would greatly reward the man who injured and killed the giant, right away he decided to face him. It was his chance to change his life! Stop and think…David had nothing to do with that problem; he wasn’t even a soldier; he was just passing by. He could have easily walked away without being noticed, gone back to his place along with his father’s sheep and carried on with his life. But he had his eyes on the “prize”! You can keep on living the life you have, in your place, without being noticed, or you can come forward and present yourself today for the battle, for there is a “prize”. Normally, we don’t like to get involved with other peoples’ problems. We think that if it’s the government’s problem or the bosses’ problem, that they must be the ones to solve it. But let’s not forget that many times that is our great opportunity. Look at the problem, at the crisis in the company where you work, at the conflict that emerged in your family, as an opportunity for you to change your life. Now be prepared to what comes next:

 

2) Be prepared to face the critics – As soon as David decided to face the giant, his own brother began to criticize him. It’s always like that, just as you say that you are going to conquer something big, people say that you are arrogant, materialist, overbearing individual and so on. After facing his brother’s critics, David was then facing King Saul, who tried to discourage him, showing his incapacities as a warrior and exalting the enemy’s qualities. Doesn’t it sound familiar? Is it common for people to exaggerate the crisis and the difficulties, and underestimate our abilities?

 

With perseverance David showed he was willing, and at last Saul agreed. He then dressed David in his own armor. Pay attention, Saul was not willing to fight the giant, but when David decided to, he wanted to teach him how to do it. There are people who don’t want to fight, but when you decide to do so, they want to tell you how to do it. Be careful! Go on based on your own strengths (Romans 14.5). Don’t wait for someone’s help, for David went to the mount all by himself to face Goliath, and his people only watched him. No one applauded him, or risked to go with him. Who knows if the soldiers were ready to run if David should fall? He went all alone. Don’t worry if you don’t find support from other people. Jesus guaranteed in Matthew 28.20 that He will always be with us.

 

3) After David defeated the giant: The Bible tells us in verse 52, that the man of Israel grew courage in them, they became animated and went after the Philistines. Just look at this, those who were once running away, now they grew courage after seeing David defeat the giant. When we have the courage to fight, and we win, we help other people to grow courage. Have you imagined how many people might be influenced to achieve once they witness your victory?

 

Don’t forget one thing: People are not used to defeating giants. For this reason, they might not back you up in the beginning. If however, you persevere and show the result, not only will they support you, but they will also achieve great things.

 

Carry on with this strength, may God bless you.

 

Rev. José Machado is a Pastor Leader of the
International Grace of God Church

 

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