How can we apply Elhanan's bravery to face modern-day "giants" in life? Elhanan’s Moment in Scripture “Again there was war with the Philistines, and Elhanan son of Jair killed Lahmi the brother of Goliath the Gittite, whose spear shaft was like a weaver’s beam.” (1 Chronicles 20:5) Seeing the Parallels: Then and Now • Elhanan faced a warrior so intimidating that Scripture highlights the size of his spear. • Our “giants” may be overwhelming debt, addiction, broken relationships, hostile workplaces, or cultural pressures that mock faith. Truth #1: Giants Fall When God’s Warriors Stand Up • Elhanan didn’t wait for someone else to act. He stepped forward in faith. • Application: Identify the giant rather than ignore it. Name it before God and decide, by His grace, to confront it. Truth #2: Victory Lies in God’s Strength, Not Human Size • Lahmi’s spear “was like a weaver’s beam,” but Elhanan’s confidence rested in the Lord (cf. Psalm 27:1; Ephesians 6:10). • Application points: – Pray first, plan second. – Replace self-talk of inadequacy with Scripture (“If God is for us, who can be against us?” Romans 8:31). – Remember past deliverances (1 Samuel 17:37). Truth #3: Obedience Is Often Quiet but Powerful • Elhanan’s story is brief—no speeches, no fanfare, just obedience. • Application: – Do the next right thing even if no one else notices. – Faithfulness in small daily choices—integrity at work, purity online, kindness to enemies—topples giants over time (Luke 16:10). Truth #4: Courage Is Contagious • Elhanan’s victory came in a season when Israel was weary; his act encouraged the nation (cf. 2 Samuel 21:15-22). • Application: – Share testimonies of God’s intervention. – Cheer on fellow believers; your story may fuel someone else’s battle. Practical Steps for Today 1. List your current “giants.” Write them down. 2. Find at least one promise in Scripture for each giant (e.g., anxiety—Philippians 4:6-7; fear—2 Timothy 1:7). 3. Commit to one concrete act of obedience this week that moves toward victory. 4. Share your progress with a trusted believer for accountability and mutual encouragement (Hebrews 10:24-25). Celebrate the God Who Delivers Just as Elhanan’s brief but decisive action brought glory to God, every modern victory, large or small, showcases the same faithful Lord who still brings giants down. |
    |