What strategies can we use to face our own "valleys of Elah"? Setting the Scene in the Valley “Saul and the men of Israel were gathered and camped in the Valley of Elah” (1 Samuel 17:2). Every believer eventually stands in a place where overwhelming opposition looms large. Scripture recounts the setting not as legend but historical fact, grounding courage in reality rather than myth. Recognize the Real Battle 1 Samuel 17:45 — “You come to me with a sword, a spear, and a javelin, but I come to you in the name of the LORD of Hosts.” • Giants flaunt visible weapons. • The believer advances under the authority of the living God. Ephesians 6:12 reminds that conflict is ultimately spiritual; strategies must be spiritual first. Remember the Proven Faithfulness 1 Samuel 17:37 — “The LORD, who delivered me from the paw of the lion and from the paw of the bear, will deliver me from the hand of this Philistine.” • Recount past rescues—personal and biblical (Exodus 14:13-14; Daniel 3:17). • Strength grows when yesterday’s testimonies are retold today. Refuse Discouraging Voices 1 Samuel 17:28-33 records skepticism from Eliab and Saul. • Dismiss labels that belittle God’s call. • Align self-talk with Romans 8:31, “If God is for us, who can be against us?” Reliance on Simple but God-Chosen Tools 1 Samuel 17:40 — “Then he took his staff in his hand, chose five smooth stones… and approached the Philistine.” • God equips through ordinary means made powerful by His Spirit. • Spiritual disciplines—prayer, Word, fellowship—remain primary stones (Acts 2:42). Run Toward the Giant in God’s Name 1 Samuel 17:48 — “David ran quickly toward the battle line to meet the Philistine.” • Delay breeds intimidation; decisive obedience displays trust. • James 4:7 shows the enemy fleeing when resisted in submission to God. Rest in the Outcome God Provides 1 Samuel 17:50 — “So David triumphed… without a sword in his hand.” • Victory manifests God’s glory, not human strength. • 2 Corinthians 4:7 calls believers “jars of clay” so that surpassing power is shown to be God’s. Rehearse the Victory for Others 1 Samuel 17:54 — “David took the head of the Philistine and brought it to Jerusalem.” • Public testimony fortifies the faith community. • Psalm 145:4 — “One generation will commend Your works to the next and proclaim Your mighty acts.” Summary Strategies for Modern Valleys of Elah – Stand on God’s proven faithfulness. – Shut out discouraging voices with Scripture. – Employ simple, God-ordained tools. – Advance quickly in obedient faith. – Attribute every triumph to the Lord and share the story. |
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