Many of us are familiar with the classic story of David and Goliath. This epic saga conveys the heroic efforts of a young boy who defeats the Philistine champion in an effort to save his nation from a lifetime of slavery and servitude. The tale of this great victory has been told by many as the ultimate “underdog” analogy and used as an instrument to motivate millions of people over generations.

Whether you are an athlete, executive or single mother, all of us at one time or another have had to face the “Giants” in our lives that threaten our quality of life. Unless confronted, these obstacles will ultimately impede your progress towards a better future. If you going to be everything that you were created to be, you must face and defeat your own personal “Giants” that stand in the way of your destiny. I want to take a more in-depth look at this classic confrontation and pull from this narrative some principles that prepared David for this pinnacle moment in his life.


Facing The Fears

If you are going to be successful in any endeavor, you can’t be afraid. The scripture refers to fear as a snare (Proverbs 29:25). Fear thrives on ignorance and brings torment to the life it possesses. Those that have experienced success in any area have learned how to manage and even live without fear. One of the greatest weapons you can use against fear is courage. Courage is not the absence of fear, but the ability to accomplish your goals despite the fears. All of us have the ability to be courageous; the question is, will you? Remember, many had the opportunity to fight Goliath but only David had the courage to face him.

Facing The Critics

During David’s attempt to defeat Goliath, his own brothers questioned his motives. Criticism comes from those that lack the courage to do what you are doing and the fortitude to face what you are facing. Critics usually operate in unawareness and major in misunderstanding. Despite his brother’s erroneous viewpoints, David would not be denied his date with destiny. Never allow the opinions of other’s to overthrow your aspirations. Naysayers are not worthy of a response; don’t allow them to distract you.

Facing Your Past

In its proper context our past can be used as a reference to achieve great feats in the future. Learning from our past mistakes and building on our past successes allow us to move from regret to progress. The victories that David acquired over the lion and the bear gave him the confidence he needed to take on the greater challenge of Goliath. Your past can be viewed as a dartboard or springboard. I encourage you to choose the latter.


Facing Your Uniqueness

David was offered the armor and weaponry of another man to fight with but wisely refused. It’s temping to covet the gifts, talents and abilities of others while neglecting our own. God has uniquely made all of us; he’s equipped us to solve problems in the earth. No one can beat you being you.

Facing Yourself

According to the biblical account (I Samuel 17:49), David used a stone and a slingshot to defeat Goliath. Contrary to popular belief, I believe the tools within themselves did not give David the victory. An automobile within itself cannot travel from point A to point B. It must have a driver. Michael Jordan’s shoes did not win the Chicago Bulls 6 NBA titles, but it was Jordan himself that led the way. The defeat of Goliath was merely a manifestation of what God had already conceived in David’s heart before he ever picked up a slingshot. Never place more confidence in what you have then who you are. What you have is subject to change. Who you are internally can shine under any external circumstance; overcoming obstacles start from within.

The “Giants” in our lives can take on many forms. To one it may be debt; to another it may be discrimination; to some it could be a debilitating disease; to another it could be divorce. Whatever your “Giant” may be, don’t run, buckle or be afraid. Have the courage to fight for what is right. Remember the bigger they are the harder they fall. Your Giants must come down!