Drawing Strength and Courage for Conquering Fear Through Faith

The story of David and Goliath is a classic example of how the combination of courage and faith allowed a young boy, who was untrained for battle, to take down a nine-foot giant named Goliath.

We can learn a lot from David’s faith and courage.

Facing an Intimidating Enemy

As Saul and the army of Israel assembled for war against the Philistines, Goliath defiantly taunted the Israelite army, demanding they choose a man to fight against him. Goliath’s taunts were distressing to Saul and the Israelite army, and they were terrified of him. Whenever they saw Goliath, the Israelites ‘fled in great fear.’ The taunting went on for forty days until David, a faithful young lad stepped forward.  Against all the odds, David beat Goliath, doing what an entire trained army couldn’t do.

Listening to The Voice of Discouragement

King Saul doubted David’s ability to rise to the challenge saying, “You are not able to go out against this Philistine and fight him; you are only a young man, and he has been a warrior from his youth.”

Despite all this, David remained confident and did not focus on the negatives.

David’s Character and Faith

David knew God was for him and not against him, and even though David wasn’t a soldier, he was confident that God had his back.  1 Samuel 17:34-37

David was assertive. He spoke up when the need arose. In verse 38, David dared to refuse to wear the armour Saul wanted him to wear into battle.

David’s identity was secure in the Lord. He had steadfast faith and in-depth knowledge of God’s character and ability to save. David would later write the book of Psalms.  Psalm 23 is a prime example of David’s understanding and knowledge of God.

Knowing God Makes A Huge Difference

So great was David’s faith that in verse 45 he says these words to Goliath:

“You come against me with sword and spear and javelin, but I come against you in the name of the Lord Almighty.” 

Seeing the young boy David defeat their mammoth-sized champion, the Philistine army turned and ran.

Bible Verses About Courage

Deuteronomy 31:6 – Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.

1 Corinthians 16:13 – Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be men of courage; be strong.

2 Timothy 1:7 – For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline.

1 John 4:18 – There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love.

Pray about Everything

Jesus was always communicating with God through prayer.  Prayer not only deepens our personal faith, but it can help believers gain an understanding of God’s purpose for their lives.

God’s Love for Mankind

Jesus Christ showed the world that a living God loves us. We can be confident in that. Read the account of Jesus Christ in the Bible from the Gospel of John.  John 1

Dealing with fear and anxiety can be tricky. There are many other helpful ways of managing fear. Talk to your GP, pastor or counsellor.

Sandra Ciminelli
Cred. Dip. Couns. (Christian)

Resources
The Bible Gateway – www.biblegateway.com