No matter how hard a person works or how lucky they may seem, life presents us all with “giants” from time to time. These giants are the seemingly unbeatable problems that arise in our daily lives. Slaying giants in your life may seem impossible, but you don’t have to give up.
Like David facing Goliath, God has called us to trust Him and step forward in faith. Here, you’ll find spiritual encouragement to move forward and practical suggestions for overcoming obstacles in your life.
Understanding the Giants We Face
First, let’s review the story of David and Goliath in 1 Samuel 17. The Israelites were at war with the Philistines, and their army was terrified of Goliath, a giant warrior. Young David was a shepherd who brought food to his older brothers on the battlefield. When he heard Goliath mocking Israel, he spoke up, but his older brother ridiculed him.
King Saul heard about David’s boldness and called him in. David told Saul he had killed lions and bears while protecting his father’s sheep and believed God would help him defeat Goliath, too. Saul agreed and offered his armor, but David refused it and chose only his sling and five smooth stones. With his trust in God, David bravely faced Goliath, declared that the battle belonged to the Lord, and struck him down with a single stone.
David’s victory came through faith and changed the course of Israel’s future.
The lessons from David and Goliath directly translate to our modern lives. The giant David faced may have been physical, but today’s giants take many forms: fear, insecurity, financial burdens, health crises, relationship struggles, and more.
The most important lesson is David’s trust in God, which gave him the courage to move forward in his fight. He recognized the tools and skills that God provided for him: his sling and stones (1 Samuel 38–40).
Another lesson is that giants may be big, but the strength and power of God are always bigger. There is no challenge that God cannot help you overcome. When facing giants in your life, remember David’s willingness to trust God and the tools He provides for you.
How to Slay the Giants in Your Life
The most important thing to remember is that overcoming obstacles isn’t your battle. That may seem counterintuitive, but the battle is God’s, not yours. As David said to Goliath, “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.” (1 Samuel 17:47).
Before you can go to battle, you have to identify your giants. Take a look at the underlying problems rather than the consequences. For example, if you’re struggling financially, you might pray for the wisdom to build a simple budget or find a better job. If you’re a student struggling to improve your grades, ask God for guidance. What tools has He provided for you?
You can also use the strength God grants through others. If your giant is addiction, you might speak with your pastor or church counselor and reach out to a support group. If your giant is loneliness, you could get more involved in your church community. Rely on God’s strength, and put your battle into His hands.
Remembering past victories can also help. David told Saul he had defeated lions and bears. It fueled his courage and convinced Saul he could do it. Have you ever worked through a hard time or succeeded at something difficult? Think back to the times when you slayed your giants, and let these victories remind you of God’s faithfulness.
Remember that slaying the giants in your life requires words of faith, not fear. Speaking of fear only reinforces it, while words of faith remind us of God’s strength. Before stepping onto the battlefield, David said to Goliath, “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” (1 Samuel 17:45).
The main lesson from David and Goliath is to use what God has given you and trust Him. David knew how to use a slingshot as a shepherd, so that’s what he carried into battle. You have similar advantages. Your talents, spiritual gifts, community, and resources are your “sling.”
Still, remember that victory may not always look exactly like you’d expect. However, God’s plan is what’s important here. That plan is always for our ultimate good and His glory.
God's Strength Makes Slaying Giants in Your Life Possible
No matter who you are, you will eventually face giants that seem insurmountable. Look to God, and boldly stand up and face any giant that stands in your way.
Remember, overcoming obstacles is always possible through Christ: “If God is for us, who can be against us?...in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us.” (Romans 8:31-37). Cherish those Biblical passages that strengthen your faith in God and provide courage to keep your head up and moving forward.
“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand” (Isaiah 41:10). This isn’t just a comforting thought; it’s a reminder that when we face overwhelming challenges, we’re not alone. Accept God’s strength in place of fear and defeat your giants.
Posts
