Most of us have heard the story of David and Goliath before.

The story is ripe with parallels to our own lives and David’s example truly offers us some premier tips on how to slay those persistent giants that we periodically have to contend with!

Because we all face Goliaths, don’t we? They may not be 9-foot plus, armor-clad warriors, but they’re giants nonetheless.

Circumstances that appear daunting and insurmountable; people that are continuously challenging; or situations that deeply test our faith can all be giants.

Giants are intimidating (I Samuel 17:3-7); they block forward progress (vs. 8-11); and they take time to deal with (vs. 16).

What’s more, if you read through the story, you’ll discover that David didn’t exactly appear to be the best guy for this job (something I’m sure we can all sympathize with when we’re standing toe-to-toe with our own giants)!

David’s resume was short and “giant-slayer” was nowhere in his work history.

He was the youngest of eight brothers; just a youth and a lowly shepherd (vs. 12-15).

His three oldest brothers were already on the battlefield with more military experience (vs. 13).

King Saul, Israel’s Commander in Chief, questioned David’s ability to help (vs. 33).

But, with the odds stacked against him (not to mention people’s opinions), David stepped up to face Goliath with divine confidence because he saw what the others weren’t seeing.

The heart.

David didn’t fixate on Goliath “the giant” like everyone else. He honed-in on the offensive taunts, lies, and accusations being hurled against God and His people.

This empowered David to act and speak with divine confidence, conviction, and faith (vs. 45-47).

Right before charging towards Goliath with nothing more than his courage, a sling and a few stones, David loudly declared, “…the battle is the Lord’s. He will hand you over…” (vs. 47)

The rest, as they say, is history. Goliath was defeated that day at the hands of a faith-filled shepherd boy.

To those around him, including Goliath, David looked weak and insignificant.

He appeared to be standing alone without anyone else cheering for him or believing he would make it out of this predicament alive.

But David understood that it wasn’t his fight. It was God’s.

And, as a result, David placed his confidence – and his life – squarely in God’s hands.

I pray that we can remember that today as we face our own giants.

It doesn’t matter if we feel capable, qualified, supported, or equipped. All that matters is that we remember the battle belongs to the Lord and leave the rest up to Him.

Until next time, Grace and Glory!