Name your Goliath

As you know, Goliath was the giant Philistine warrior who faced off with young David in 1 Samuel 17. When David witnessed the Goliath show he was shocked that no one would stand up to him. He saw this not as a military issue but a theological one. Goliath was dissing Israel’s God, and no one would stand up to him. So David did just that. He rejected the armor of the king (the traditional, human answers to this problem) in favor of a new, faith-driven, innovative solution. He took his shepherd’s staff, his sling and 5 smooth stones, went to battle, and killed the giant with the first shot. He didn’t even need the other 4 stones! David had confidence in his slingshot, but mostly David had confidence in his God. He just knew that God would help him, and that his God was bigger than any Goliath or army.

Who’s your Goliath, challenging and mocking you today? Who taunts you and overwhelms you with their threatening size and strength? Who’s got you shaking in your boots? Running in fear? Filling you with doubt, self-loathing and regret? Is it an addiction? The economy? Family issues? Money problems? Crime? Health concerns? Doubts? Anger and depression?

Whatever your Goliath looks like, remember David. Remember where your help comes from (Psalm 121). Believe that God has already given you something to draw upon to defeat your Goliath. Then act on it. In faith and confidence!

What are the Goliaths confronting us today? What new weapons do you think we have to fight them? Add your comments below.

The blur of a wedding day

I recently got to see a wedding from the other end of the aisle—as a proud Dad walking his oldest daughter down it. I now know why people take so many photos at weddings—the day becomes a blur of wonderful activity. Without the pictures I could wonder if I was really there, and if a wedding took place. I have a new appreciation for those guys bringing daughters down the aisle!

This week's question: Dads, Moms, what was your experience at your children’s weddings? Did some of it seem surreal at the time? Add your comments below.