“David said to the Philistine, ‘You come against me with sword and spear and javelin, but I come against you in the name of the Lord Almighty, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied. This day the Lord will deliver you into my hands... 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, and he will give all of you into our hands.’”
- 1 Samuel 17:45-47 -

David testifies to the Lord’s power not only to Saul but to Goliath as well. Moreover, he brings an additional angle to the issue, namely that through the deliverance it will be made known to the whole earth that there is a God in Israel (v 46). In other words, David not only shows spiritual discernment but understands God’s wider purpose. Israel’s and her king’s calling are to witness to the Lord’s presence and power through their interaction with others and their trust in him. Moreover, the outcome of David’s stance will testify to God’s own people (v 47) and thereby encourage them.1

David’s attitude reminds us that when we go through testing times, more is at stake than our own well-being, though God cares about that too. Outsiders as well as Christians, whether colleagues, friends, or family, see our reactions and may recognize God’s presence through us. For some it could become the opportunity that awakens them to the reality of God for the first time; for others it may be the encouragement they need as Christians to keep going in their own struggles.

Apply: Lord, may we witness to your reality in word and deed and offer hope to those without hope.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, you’re greater than the most powerful forces in the world. Use me to point others to your grace.

(from Encounter with God)