How can we trust God in our own "lion and bear" situations? Setting the scene – 1 Samuel 17:34-37 “Your servant has been tending his father’s sheep. Whenever a lion or a bear came and carried off a lamb from the flock, I went after it, struck it down, and rescued the lamb from its mouth. When it reared up against me, I grabbed it by its fur, struck it, and killed it. Your servant has killed both lion and bear; this uncircumcised Philistine will be like one of them, for he has defied the armies of the living God.” David added, “The LORD who delivered me from the claws of the lion and bear will deliver me from the hand of this Philistine.” Seeing David’s logic of faith • God’s past intervention (lion, bear) = solid proof of His present power. • The threat (Goliath) is evaluated against God’s track record, not David’s feelings. • David links victory to God’s honor: “He has defied the armies of the living God.” Identifying our lions and bears • Sudden medical news that mauls our peace. • Job loss stalking our finances. • Family conflict clawing at unity. • Hidden addictions roaring for control. Every believer faces something with teeth; David shows how to face it. Reasons we can trust God today • His character is unchanging – “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever” (Hebrews 13:8). • His covenant love is guaranteed – “He who did not spare His own Son… how will He not also… graciously give us all things?” (Romans 8:31-32). • His promises stand – “Do not fear, for I am with you… I will uphold you with My righteous right hand” (Isaiah 41:10). • His past faithfulness in our lives is personal evidence—keep a record of answered prayer and rescued moments. Practical steps to step out in faith 1. Recall specific deliverances. Write them down, thank God aloud. 2. Rehearse Scripture daily; let truth drown out intimidation (Psalm 56:3-4). 3. Refuse human armor: rely on spiritual weapons—prayer, Word, obedience (2 Corinthians 10:4). 4. Run toward the battle in God’s strength, not away from it (1 Samuel 17:48). 5. Repeat the testimony. After victory, declare what the Lord has done so others learn to trust Him (Psalm 34:1-4). The bottom line The God who gave David courage against a lion, a bear, and a giant is the same God standing with us. Remember what He has done, believe what He has promised, and move forward trusting that His deliverance is already at work. |
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