Saturday, 28 March 2020 1 Samuel 17:32-51
" ...and the whole world will know that there is a GOD in Israel. All those gathered here will know that it is not by sword or spear that the LORD saves; for the battle is the LORD's..." 1 Sam. 17: 46,47
How interesting to see David the ordinary shepherd boy being used by GOD to defeat the enemies of Israel and lift up the name of the Living God in the midst of an unbelieving pagan nation, Philistia. God found David faithful in the little things and now brought him forth to accomplish a major task of routing the enemy.
There are two noble intentions of David conveyed through this statement in our key verse—his intention of lifting up the Name of the LORD of hosts that the whole world may know there is a Living GOD in Israel and to show that that might and strength belongs to the LORD! A worn-out sling and five smooth stones in the hand of a shepherd boy, who was pliable in the hands of the Almighty GOD was enough to fell the giant and send an army to its heels. The LORD does not delight in the strength of the horse or in the legs of a man; instead He delights in those who fear Him and put their hope in Him! (Psalm147:10,11)
David's fearless statements in declaring his faith and trust in the Living God are commendable. How did David have such trust in God? The experiences he describes in Vs.34&35 speak for themselves that David was fearless in the face of fearful situations, his confidence being in the Living God who was his help. He thus says: “The LORD, who delivered me from the paw of the lion and from the paw of the bear, He will deliver me from the hand of this Philistine.”(V.37). David went against the enemy in the name of the LORD of hosts! (V.45) David’s defence was the Almighty God who would bring him victory! The LORD proved beyond doubt to all the bystanders by His supernatural intervention that "God and one person are a majority" pitted against a giant and his vast army.
What kind of situation are you upfront with today? To the frightened disciples, Christ Jesus said: “Take courage; it is I, do not be afraid.”(Mark 6:50). In speaking these words to you today He wants to let you know He is by your side to help you, no matter how frightful/challenging it may feel. Trust Him to bring you out of your situation victoriously! Then declare His praise to glorify His name!
As we have been following the lives of people used by GOD to declare His name and message, let us know today in whom we have placed our trust-"Acknowledge today and take to heart this day that the LORD is GOD in heaven above and on the earth below. There is no other."(Deut.4:39). Then let us lift up His name through every opportunity He gives us that others will know we worship and serve a Living GOD!
A Promise:
"Those who know YOUR name will trust in YOU, for YOU, LORD, have never forsaken those who seek YOU." (Psalm 9:10)
Listen: ‘Whom shall I fear?’
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