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Reactions of a Man of God
In 1 Samuel 17.20-30, a shepherd boy is sent by his father with food to check on how his brothers are doing in battle. As he talks with his brothers, Goliath yells out a defiant message to Israel. David boldly states his position against this giant who “defies the armies of the living God” (v. 26). Such a statement receives criticism from his oldest brother, but David is persistent in the matter. He stands alone as one who believes the giant is not to be dreaded.David’s view of such an adversary was without a doubt an action of faith.
David was a God-fearing individual who looked at the difficulty as a day for God to be victorious.
He believed the enemy could only conquer his people if they let him. Holy men see the world with new eyes of hope and assurance, for if we have the “mind of Christ” - pure, fresh, and deep in conviction - we will have the mind which can overcome the world.
David did not hesitate to indicate his disapproval of those who oppose God.
He was abhorred at the thought that anyone would dare assert themselves against God. When he remembered who the Philistine was and what Israel meant to God, this defiance was a ridiculous thought. A religious man will not look at life and be silent. In view of man’s sorrows and the habits of the world, something must be said or done to eliminate such disaster. Paul said a good minister will “preach the word; be urgent in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort, with all long-suffering and teaching” (2 Timothy 4.2). Our hesitation to oppose the enemy can spell disaster for many.
David was misrepresented by his brother.
His mind and actions were charged with pride and curiosity (1 Samuel 17.28). Many religious people who are zealous for God are accused of fanaticism. Is it fantasy to believe we can be people of self-control? Is it fantasy to raise faithful children in a wicked world? Is it fantasy to be honest in dealing with one another? Is it fantasy to wake up the next morning without regret fro what you did the day before? We should give value to our convictions when they are manifested by a simple and pure life. If we rely upon the fault-finding and petty critics of this world to evaluate our faith, we will never be victorious. We will lose every battle.
For whatever is begotten of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith.
1 John 5.4
