Expect great things from God, Attempt great things for God – William Carey

(May 30, 1792)

1. Recount God’s mighty acts (1 Samuel 17:38-39 ).

When David is faced with the challenge of overtaking the giant, he recounts
God’s mighty acts. He reminds himself and others that God delivered him from
the paw of the lion and the bear. When we remember how God has been
faithful to us in the past, our faith is strengthened. How has God previously
demonstrated His faithfulness to you? Rid yourself of a short-term memory.

2. Don't use someone else’s armor (1 Samuel 17:38-39 ).

As David tried on Saul’s armor, he fumbled around. Saul’s armor did not fit.
We must fight our battles in our own armor. Someone else cannot fight them
for us. God will always equip us for the task, but it will be unique to the gifting
and calling He has for us individually.

3. Ignore the critic (1 Samuel 17:33 , 42-45 ).

David was told by Saul and Goliath that he was “just a boy.” He had to
overcome this negative thinking. Satan will try to tell you that you are too weak,
too insignificant, and too ineffective. The enemy of your soul does not want you
to advance. Recognize this and ignore his lies by listening to God’s Word.  “The
one who is in you is greater than the one who is in the world”  (1 John 4:4).

4. Walk in faith (1 Samuel 17:40, 45-46 ).

David took five smooth stones from the brook. Why five? 2 Sam. 21:15-22 we
see four other giants (sons of Rapha), one of them was the brother of Goliath.

David announced 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 defiled. This day the Lord will hand you over
to me, and I will strike you down.” Just as David did, we need to face our giant
square on and announce our victory. Walking in faith not only takes courage, it
takes knowing the One who is faithful. “The one who calls you is faithful and He
will do it” (1 Thessalonians 5:24). He can be trusted!

5. Let the Word out (1 Samuel 17:46-47 ).

What was one of the intended results of David’s victory? It was to make
known “that there is a God in Israel” and that the battle was His. In your
situation, what is your goal? Is it ultimately the promotion of God’s kingdom?
May His name be exalted through your situation, and may that be your main
priority.