Week 77, Day 1: Goliath
Today’s Reading: 1 Samuel 17:1-58
Some thoughts from today’s reading…
Chapter 17 records one of the things that David is best known for. In one of the many conflicts between the Philistines and Israel, a champion comes forth from the Philistines who would have been extremely intimidating. Goliath appears to be a descendant of the giants who were reported by the 12 spies to be in the promise land. Many of these giants had already been slain in the taking of the lands but at least a few remained in the lands that were not taken yet. Goliath was massive. He had a man by his side just to carry his enormous shield. It is no wonder that for 40 days his challenges to Israel went unanswered. And then here comes David who is still considered to be but a youth. The exact age of David is not given but certainly he was not considered to be of a fighting age yet.
When David approached Goliath it is funny to picture things. A huge man and a young man coming up to him with a stick and a sling in hand. Goliath regarded this as an insult. “Am I a dog that you come to me with sticks?” Such an array of things would be used to chase off some unwanted dog, not for normal combat. And yet because of his confidence in Jehovah, David was able to overcome his enemy. Impressive and encouraging.
Question: What lessons should we learn and keep from this account?
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