By: Blackaby
Then David said to the Philistine, "You come to
me with a sword, with a spear, and with a javelin. 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.'' (1 Samuel 17:45-46a)
David
was certainly an optimist! Regardless of his circumstances, David could always
see God’s activity! A pessimist focuses on the problems, concentrating on the
reasons why something cannot be done. The optimist sees those same problems,
but he sees them from the perspective of God’s presence.
David
was just a young boy when he faced Goliath, an intimidating veteran warrior who
frightened even the bravest Israelite soldier. As he prepared for battle, David
saw that Goliath was a giant. He heard his boastful taunts. He could not fail
to notice his enemy’s weapons: a sword, a shield, and a javelin. David did not
barge into the battle unprepared for a fight. He armed himself with five smooth
stones. David was prepared for God to grant him victory with the first stone he
hurled at the giant or the fifth. David was ready to accept God’s victory,
whether it came easily or with much effort.
Optimists
do not ignore the difficulties, they are keenly aware of them. But the
knowledge of God’s presence prevents them from becoming discouraged or giving
up. It is impossible to stand in the presence of God and be a pessimist!
The
account of David and Goliath vividly pictures the source of the Christian’s
faith—not our own size, strength, or resources, but the power of almighty God.
If we focus on our opposition and problems, they will seem gigantic. But as we
focus on God, we will see our situation in the proper perspective and be
assured that all things are possible with God (Phil. 4:13).
No comments:
Post a Comment