Read: 1 Samuel 17:1-18:4; John 8:21-30; Psalm 111:1-10; Proverbs 15:11
The Philistines had a champion named Goliath. Goliath means “stripped” or “exile”. This is how God saw him yet to the world he looked nine feet tall, strong and heavily armored. He was a picture of a spiritual principality that causes fear and stops God’s people. God gave David eyes to see beyond the nature. David understood who was on his side and that there is no power greater than God.
David’s brothers didn’t encourage him at all. They were more like adversaries which is sometimes how it is in families. But, David didn’t give up. When he couldn’t encourage the soldiers to go out and fight, he got drafted to do it himself. Israel was desperate for someone with courage. That is all it takes to fight the devil: courage and the Word of God. David’s stone stood for the Word. It hit the devil between the eyes and knocked him out. David finished the job with Goliath’s own spear.
David’s reward was wealth, Saul’s daughter in marriage and tax exemption for his family but the greatest thing David won was the heart of Jonathan’s. A friend is greater than all the worldly riches and we have a friend that sticks closer than a brother (Proverbs 18:24).
In John, Jesus nailed the Pharisees. He told them that he was going to heaven and they were going to hell. He explained that they would believe who he was when he was gone. Some people there heard him and believed.
Lord, help us to see the devil stopped and exiled instead of strong and powerful. Thank you for reminding us of how powerful your Word is and that we have nothing to fear when we trust in you.
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