DAVID: Courage in Crisis
One of the amazing stories of courage and valour in the Bible is that of David and Goliath in 1 Samuel 17. David was a shepherd boy who occasionally played the harp for King Saul. He was a talented musician, armour-bearer, and a handsome young man but what stood him out in the crowd was his courageous spirit. There was no one in the army of Israel courageous enough to stand against the giant Goliath. David rose to the challenge and eventually defeated Goliath with only a sling and a stone. What was the reason for David's victory?David answers this for himself in verse 45, "You (Goliath) come against me with sword and spear and javelin, but I come against you in the name of the Lord Almighty..." It is clear that David's courage is grounded in God. So David, in the midst of a crisis in Israel, displayed courage and determination to honour the name of God.
There are many adversities, giants and challenges we face in this life in relationships, finances, health, etc. Currently we are struggling with COVID-19 and we have seen the devastating effects on lives and livelihood. In such a context we are called to be like David to believe in a God who has come in his son, Jesus Christ, to save the world. God's unconditional love for us is to help and not destroy us. Such knowledge should give us assurance, hope and courage to face our giants; because God is with us we are more than conquerors! David knew this, I wonder if you can say the same?
David eventually became king after Saul and ruled for at least 40 years and under his leadership Israel prospered. However, David was by no means perfect. This can be seen in his cry to God in Psalms 51:10-12 in the face of his sinfulness. In his prayer: "Create in me a pure heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me..." David shows us that courage is also displayed in repentance, lament, humility and forgiveness.
In the midst of continuous corruption in our country and world we need the courage of David to prophetically proclaim God's presence, justice and righteousness. We also need the courage to confess our own sinfulness and seek repentance. In the midst of crises we need renewal of faith, hope, love and the courage to follow Christ. May this be our prayer and joy!
| David said to the Philistine, "You come against me with sword and spear and javelin, but I come against you in the name of the LORD Almighty, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied. This day the LORD will hand you over to me, and I'll strike you down and cut off your head. Today I will give the carcasses of the Philistine army to the birds of the air and the beasts of the earth, and the whole world will know that there is a God in Israel. All those gathered here will know that it is not by sword or spear that the LORD saves; for the battle is the LORD's, and he will give all of you into our hands." (1Samuel17:45-47) |
Jerry Pillay is married to Sandra; they are blessed with three children: Jessie, Janice and Aaron. He currently serves as Professor and Dean of the Faculty of Theology and Religion, University of Pretoria.
