Article August 29, 1983 Issue

Use what you know!

PATRICIA FARMER AUCOIN

The story of David and Goliath is sometimes thought of as a child's story. Children generally do enjoy stories about giants, but the message of this episode in the life of the young David is much more than a religiously grounded adventure. Like many portions of Scripture, when examined deeply it is found to contain practical, to-the-point guidance for us all today.

Goliath was the champion of the Philistines (the enemies of Israel and of "the armies of the living God") according to the Old Testament. He presented a terrifying picture: over nine feet tall, armed with a javelin and a coat of mail, his legs covered with bronze, he shouted for a fight to the death with a representative Israelite. The warriors of Israel, "when they saw the man, fled from him, and were sore afraid." ^{I Sam. 17:24, 26.}

David apparently recognized the threatening situation as an opportunity, and he announced he would challenge Goliath.

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