“Then it happened when the Philistine rose and came and drew near to meet David, that David ran quickly toward the battle line to meet the Philistine.” 1 Samuel 17:48
The God-defying giants in our culture don’t just speak out against Christian values. They try to marginalize and silence followers of Jesus Christ altogether. As these giants have become more aggressive, many Christians have withdrawn; only vocalizing their biblical beliefs inside the safety of the church house. David shows us today that giant slayers don’t shrink back when the heat is turned up; they run toward the battle. In order to help us effectively engage in spiritual warfare, let’s really look at David’s example.
First, David knew what was at stake – the name of the Lord (v26). Every time Goliath taunted God’s people, he was defying the one, true, living God. And it offended him. So, he seized the opportunity to take a stand for the Lord by taking on the God-defying giant (v32). It’s one thing to be offended by all the anti-God, anti-Bible rhetoric in our culture; it’s quite another thing to actually do something about it. How can you call other believers in your community into action? As you do, remember to speak and act in ways that elevate and honor the name of the Lord.
Next, David knew who was fighting the battle (v37). Because David’s confidence was in God’s faithfulness rather than his own abilities, he got rid of anything that would incumber him (vv38-40). Likewise, we’re more likely to speak up for the Lord when we’ve spent time in His Word. We gain courage by reading accounts of His faithfulness to those who’ve gone before us, and by meditating on His promises to be faithful still. We also need time alone with God in prayer. Not only to ask for His strength, but also to confess any sin that would incumber our efforts or taint our testimony.
Have the God-defying giants of our day silenced you? Engaging our culture doesn’t mean we have to argue and debate. It simply means that we speak and act when the Holy Spirit prompts us to do so. The courage to step up for a righteous cause requires stepping out in faith and running toward the battle.