The world is filed with people who challenge and even mock the people of God. Often God’s people can be intimidated into remaining silent or even compromising their beliefs and values. It often seems easier to avoid conflict and ride out the storm. However, sometimes, someone needs to speak up. If evil is given an inch, it will soon demand a mile. The powers of darkness cannot tolerate it when people remain loyal and obedient to God and His standards.
David was not the most experienced person present, nor was he in a position of leadership. No one expected him to do anything in light of the imposing challenge before them. There wasn’t even any armor available that fit the young man. But David had something that is indispensible to leaders: courage. His bravery did not arise from foolish, youthful bravado. It was based on his walk with God. He had relied upon God’s protection when he single-handedly fought a bear and a lion and God had proven His provision was more than adequate. David’s faith was not a blind faith. It was based on experience. On what David had seen.
David understood that, with a greater challenge came a greater provision from God. Unlike other people present that day; David’s faith was not theoretical. He lived his faith daily. When the imposing giant began to taunt God’s people, David told his king, “Your servant will go and fight with this Philistine” (1 Samuel 17:32). Such courage and unwavering faith in God would lead David to become the greatest leader in his nation’s history.
What giant is presently challenging you? How are your actions reflecting what you believe about God? Are you letting the enemies of God intimidate you? Have you been bullied into silence? Or, do you sense that God wants to show Himself strong through your life? How you respond to those situations reveal your fitness as a leader.