There are times when we feel as though we cannot meet the daily challenges we face. Why is it? Is a lack of faith the reason? We all have Goliath-like problems that seem too hard to conquer. The biblical character David had his challenges. Faced with a giant of a man, Goliath, and his four brothers, David’s odd of defeating them was not very good. Goliath had already won many battles with the help of his brothers and he was a fearless force to reckon with on the battlefield.
David chose to face his enemies with five smooth stones and a slingshot. Now that does not seem like much of a weapon to defend oneself when face to face with a giant of a man. But when you have faith, you can face any challenge or problem that comes up. Even though it is often hard to believe you can, your unwavering faith will help you find the courage to conquer your problems.
Those who overcome giants in their lives realize that the giant represents greater issues. A giant never stands alone; behind him lie his causes. Overeating, addiction, abuse and anger are all driven and supported by other issues. Somewhere behind the obvious giant are a supporter such as pain, guilt, loss and shame. David was prepared to meet his foe with five stones and a slingshot. One stone for Goliath and one for each of his brothers. However, David only needed one stone to defeat his enemy.
David’s greatest strength was knowing that with God’s help he could conquer both the giant and his brothers. Those of us who conquer our problems never allow our fears to overwhelm our faith. God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind. Fear will feed on the failures of the past, but you can not allow yesterday’s failures and problems to overwhelm today’s faith.
So, take care facing your problems today by having faith that you can conquer whatever comes your way. You will prevail because you have a greater power that will guide and care for you along this glorious journey in life. Life’s trials will test you and shape you, but do not let them change who you are. You see, without struggle, success has no value. Keep up the “good fight,” and Never Give Up! Never Give Up! Never Give Up!
By Chaplain Ghosten
chaplain@lhp.net
