READ: 1 Sam. 17:32-46: … Then David said … But I come to you in the name of the Lord of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied. This day the Lord will deliver you into my hand, and I will strike you and take your head from you. … that all the earth may know that there is a God in Israel.
What is the secret of David’s victory? Is it “those who are not strong must be cunning”? No, quite the opposite. David is a man after God’s own heart. He trusts in God, although David is not without sin. In contrast to Saul’s self-willed, calculating, proud, and rebellious heart, David here shows a heart that depends on the LORD and is dedicated to Him.
This doesn’t make David passive; it drives him to act in the name of the Lord. He does not act arrogantly but only acts when all the able-bodied men of his people fail and tremble before the enemy. He knows his place but sees that the honor of God is at stake.
It is not just about Israel being in distress and facing a difficult time. No, David hears that God is being horribly mocked and defied (vs.26,45) while all bystanders and the king who hear this do nothing. Therefore, David offers to stand up for the name of the LORD, as every believer should, with the strengths, gifts, and means He provides. He feels safe and strengthened by the LORD, who saved him from wild animals in the past (vs.37).
David’s simple and faithful testimony stands in stark contrast to Saul’s great fear, discouragement, weakness, and lack of trust in the LORD. David thereby points out the cause of the dire situation. It lies not so much in the strength of the opponent but in the absence of faith and trust. When Goliath approaches David, he testifies of his God: “I come to you in the name of the LORD of hosts, the One whom you have defied.” And in His name, he defeats Goliath.
What to do when God is being mocked?
Singing: Ps. 46:1