Monday, July 25, 2016

DEFEATING THE ENEMY (1)

 
“AS GOLIATH MOVED…TO ATTACK,
DAVID QUICKLY RAN…TO MEET HIM”


1 Samuel 17:48-50 (NIV)
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 face down on the ground.
50 So David triumphed over the Philistine with a sling and a stone; without a sword in his hand he struck down the Philistine and killed him.

The Bible say, “For forty days, twice a day” (1Sa17:16 (NLT) Goliath mocked the children of Israel. Today our giant may not wear armor and brandish a sword, but he’ll taunt us relentlessly day and night about unpaid bills, past sins, a failing marriage, or a job we detest. Goliath’s ancestors had been Israel’s enemies and Joshua annihilated them all – except the inhabitants of Gath where Goliath hailed from. Why do you suppose this is something of value to note? Because if we leave our old enemy a –leg- to –stand- on he’ll rise to fight again.  Perhaps dear friend, you’re dealing with issues your parents and grandparents struggled with – things like addiction, divorce, anger and depression. 

When the Israelites “heard the Philistine’s challenge, they were terrified and lost all hope” (1Sa17:11 TM).  If that’s how you feel (been there and as I share, I encourage myself), do what David did, “As Goliath moved closer to attack, David …ran out to meet him.”

Max Lucado wrote: “We retreat behind a desk, or crawl into a nightclub, or a bed of forbidden love.  For a moment we feel safe, insulated, anesthetized, but then the work runs out, the liquor wears off, the lover leaves, and we hear Goliath again…Rush your giant with a God-saturated soul! (Tell him) “Giant of divorce you aren’t entering my home, depression you won’t conquer me, alcohol, bigotry, child abuse, insecurity…you’re going down.” When was the last time you picked up your sling and ran towards the roar?

The Bible says, “When the enemy comes in like a flood, the spirit of the Lord will lift up a standard (flag of victory) against him” (Isaiah 59:19NKJV). God has given us the power to fight this battle and win – let’s use it!.....to be cont'd


In Christ,



Playwright Janet Irene Thomas
Founder/CEO
Bible Stories Theatre of
Fine & Performing Arts

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