This chapter contains more details of war between Israel and both the Ammonites and Philistines.
“And after this there arose war with the Philistines at Gezer. Then Sibbecai the Hushathite struck down Sippai, who was one of the descendants of the giants… and Elhanan the son of Jair struck down Lahmi the brother of Goliath the Gittite, the shaft of whose spear was like a weaver’s beam. And there was again war at Gath, where there was a man of great stature, who had six fingers on each hand and six toes on each foot, twenty-four in number, and he also was descended from the giants. And when he taunted Israel, Jonathan the son of Shimea, David’s brother, struck him down. These were descended from the giants in Gath, and they fell by the hand of David and by the hand of his servants.” (v4-8)
Have you ever faced ‘giants’? I don’t mean the literal giants David and his men faced, I mean people or circumstances that seemed far greater than your ability to comprehend or handle. I know I have. There have been times where circumstances were so overwhelming my mind would shut down and I couldn’t think clearly (I’m still terrified of public speaking).
Yet, we have great hope – when we experience these ‘giants’ in our lives, times of being overwhelmed, fearful, or discouraged, God is there for us. “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” (Jos 1:9) ” ‘I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.’ ” (Jn 16:33) “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.” (Pro 3:5-6)
God has given us a spirit of power, love and self-control, not a spirit of fear (2 Tim 1:7), so we can face ‘giants’ with His help. There are many times where we can’t do something on our own, so I encourage us to embrace God’s strength and courage in order to face the task/trial ahead. All things, even the impossible ones, are possible through Him (Mt 19:26).
Father God, our Almighty and Powerful King, awesome and splendid is Your name. Father You are the source of all true power and strength. In You we can find the courage and strength to face any circumstance, trial or task. Father please remind us to remain fully rooted in You, drawing every breath from that which You provide. When we fully devote ourselves to You, fear melts away and we have the boldness we need to face the most menacing giants. All praise, honor, glory and thanksgiving be unto You, our Creator, Provider and King, forever and ever, amen.
~ Conqueror in Training