How can we apply Elhanan's courage in our spiritual battles today? Elhanan’s Moment of Courage “Again there was a battle with the Philistines, and Elhanan son of Jair struck down Lahmi the brother of Goliath the Gittite, whose spear shaft was like a weaver’s beam.” (1 Chronicles 20:5) Elhanan stepped forward when another giant threatened Israel, displaying the same fearless faith David had shown years earlier. Identifying Our Spiritual Giants • Persistent temptations (James 1:14–15) • Cultural pressure to compromise truth (Romans 12:2) • Personal discouragement or fear (Psalm 42:11) • Opposition to gospel witness (2 Corinthians 4:4) Sources of God-Given Courage • God’s unfailing presence — “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous... for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.” (Joshua 1:9) • The Spirit’s power — “God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and self-control.” (2 Timothy 1:7) • Christ’s victory — “If God is for us, who can be against us?” (Romans 8:31) • The written Word — “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” (Psalm 119:105) Practical Ways to Step Onto the Field 1. Recognize the battle is the Lord’s (1 Samuel 17:47). 2. Speak truth aloud, silencing lies with Scripture (Matthew 4:1-11). 3. Act promptly in obedience; delay feeds fear (Hebrews 10:36-39). 4. Surround yourself with fellow warriors in Christ who reinforce courage (Hebrews 10:24-25). 5. Keep past deliverances in view, just as Israel remembered Goliath’s fall (Psalm 77:11-12). Standing Firm in the Armor of God Ephesians 6:10-18 lays out the equipment: • Belt of truth — counters deception. • Breastplate of righteousness — protects the heart from accusation. • Shoes of peace — keeps footing sure in conflict. • Shield of faith — extinguishes fiery darts of doubt. • Helmet of salvation — guards the mind with assurance. • Sword of the Spirit, the Word — the only offensive weapon, deployed as Elhanan swung his. Giving God the Glory Elhanan’s victory was recorded not to magnify the man but the God who empowered him. When today’s giants fall: • Point others to the Lord’s strength, not personal skill (Psalm 115:1). • Offer thanksgiving and testimony, encouraging believers facing their own giants (Revelation 12:11). • Stay ready for the next assignment, trusting the same God who delivered before will do so again (2 Corinthians 1:10). |
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