It's easy to cheer for the underdog. We have an affinity for the sports team that goes up against the seemingly superior, heavily favored team. And that might have something to do with our fascination with the famous battle between David and Goliath, recorded in 1 Samuel 17.
Goliath was a legendary giant, towering above everyone at an astounding ten feet tall. He is aptly described in 1 Samuel 17.4-7.
Matched against this giant of a man was a seemingly puny shepherd boy, armed with a sling and five smooth stones (verse 40). In the face of apparent impossible odds, David declared, "You come to me with a sword, a spear, and a javelin, but I come to you in the name of the LORD of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have taunted." (1 Samuel 17.45)
David's audacious confidence was not in himself, but in the God whom Goliath had taunted. His concern was not for his own fame or recognition, by for that of Yahweh.
There are battles we are drawn in to. Someone challenges our opinion or belief; they disagree with our position. The easiest thing in the world is to assume a defensive position because our reputation appears to be at stake. Are we as concerned about our Father's reputation as we are our own?
A book I'm reading makes a seemingly "scholarly" undercut of the life and work of Jesus. This book is no doubt effective in undermining the reputation of Jesus in the eyes of skeptics and unbelievers. A "righteous indignation" roils up within me as I read, but I wonder what I can do. It's a Goliath task to deflect the destructive work of a bestseller. But, I serve - as do you - the God of David. The battle may seem overwhelming, but "the battle is the LORD's" (1 Samuel 17.47)
Let's engage today in His battles, with His weapons, for His reputation, and marvel at the victory He brings.
©Steve Taylor, 2018 --Used by permission
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