Devotion:
Read 1 Samuel 17:4-11, 16, 32-50.
Let me begin today’s devotion with somewhat of a technicality. David’s weapon was a sling, not a “slingshot” as so many writers and speakers are prone to say. To propel its projectile, a slingshot depends upon rubber or some other highly elastic material that did not exist in the time of David. David’s weapon was a sling, consisting of two narrow strips of leather or cords of some other material, joined together by a leather strap or pouch on which the stone was placed. As the sling was spun around in an arc, one of the strips was released at precisely the right moment, and the huge centrifugal force projected the stone at great velocity. I remember my own dad making slings for my younger brother and me and showing us how to use them. What on earth was he thinking?
Amid all Goliath’s trash talk was an obvious challenge to the strength of Israel and its army. David saw that also as a challenge to God. David was young and ambitious. But his going out against the giant went beyond youthful braggadocio and became an act of faith in God’s might and protection. His action teaches us to use what we have, our familiar resources and our experience and training, and to trust God as we face our giants.
Personal Worship Option:
What giants are you facing today? In other words, what seems overwhelming and too powerful for you? You are not alone! Pray for God’s strength and protection and go forward. And if you are not facing any particular giants today, reflect on those from your past and give God thanks for helping you overcome them.
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