Thursday, December 28, 2006

December 28 - Facing Giants

Today's Reading:
O.T. - 1 Samuel 17 - 18
N.T. - 1 Corinthians 16

Focus Verses: 1 Samuel 17:45-49
45 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. 46 This day the LORD will hand you over to me, and I'll strike you down and cut off your head. Today I will give the carcasses of the Philistine army to the birds of the air and the beasts of the earth, and the whole world will know that there is a God in Israel. 47 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."48 As the Philistine moved closer to attack him, David ran quickly toward the battle line to meet him. 49 Reaching into his bag and taking out a stone, he slung it and struck the Philistine on the forehead. The stone sank into his forehead, and he fell facedown on the ground.

Insight:
Goliath's confidence was in his own strength and weapons. David's confidence was in God. David was confident that God would help him face opposition he could not face on his own. He was so confident that he ran toward the battle line. He was victorious.

Response and Action:
I want God's strength and help to face difficult problems and obstacles. If my faith in God is strong, I will run toward the battle line to face the troubles and threats that are set before me.

O God, I believe in you. Please increase my faith. Help me to find confidence in you, O Lord, and to not be discouraged or fearful because of my weakness and limitations. Help me to remember that you will help me live for you and empower me to face difficult situations. Amen.

Proverbs: 28:26
"He who trusts in himself is a fool, but he who walks in wisdom is kept safe."

Resources:
Living in God's Power: Finding God's Strength for Life's Challenges
by Bill Hybels, Kevin G. Harney, and Sherry Harney