14TH APRIL, 2022.
62ND ARTICLE IN ALL.
11TH ARTICLE IN THE MONTH.

There has been battles between the children of Israel and their enemies since Saul became king. The Philistines had already invaded into the territory of Israel. On this occasion, both of them were on a mountain against each other and a valley was between them.

Goliath, a champion of the philistines challenged the Israelites to choose a man among them who will fight against him and the result of the contest will determine the results of the warfare. but Israel could not provide any one bold enough to challenge him until David came. Got used him to rescue Israel from the intimidation of the philistines.

The case of Goliath is a typical representation of the challenges that stare us in the face. It might continue for some time as if God will not intervene or send the deliverer. But in due time God will send help to His saints. Our attitude in difficult and challenging times should be of prayerfulness and patience with faith.

Some challenges we face in life may look unusual. The only thing they unleashed on us is fear. When we concentrate on the magnitude of our challenges, we could be terrified and intimidated. This may make us to forget God's promises. The word of God has given us precious promises in order to have the confidence to confront the challenges. We should not lose focus on God's promises despite the daunting challenges. Besides, we should pray to God for help with two will overcome if we do not lose heart to the challenges as Israel did at this point.

One could also have expected a young person like David to play around in the neighborhood with friends other than run a tedious errand of such. He was obedient to his father and did exactly as he was commanded. Though it was a tough assignment, David did not just abandon the sheep, he left them with a keeper. David would have gone for sightseeing or even come back to take a break from the Royal service but he returned from Saul to feed his father sheep at Bethlehem.

Young people should cultivate the habit of assisting their parents and guardians in whatever duty assigned to them. They should watch over the family resources in their care. They should not carelessly leave their school bags, books or writing materials somewhere in order to participate or watch a roadside game.

It was David's duty to take care of his father's properties. It was also observed that when he got to the battlefield to see his brother, he left his garage in the hand of the keeper of the garage. He concentrated on the assignment given to him and was able to locate his brethren. He was a very diligent boy.

God's help is available to his children. Courage, faith and obedience to God at factors that can help us obtain victory in life's battles. David put his confidence in God and hoped to take away their reproach of this uncircumcised infidel from both the army of Israel and God. Goliath could not believe his eyes as he moved towards David.

David threw a stone at him in a sling and he fell. He ran towards the fallen giant and cut off his head with his own sword. When the philistines saw that their champion was dead, they fled. Then the army of Israel pursued and took spoil. Israel defeated and took over the camp of the philistines to the exploits of David who was mightily helped by God.

When you are diligent in little assignments, God will make room for a greater one. If you have been diligently doing your class work and homework and you are performing well in the class, it could expose you to greater competitions that will promise you awards. Although, this could cause envy and jealousy from your colleagues who may try to discourage you, you must not throw in the trowel. Like David, you must remain courageous and focused. Do not be distracted by gossips or uncharitable comments.

Thanks for reading. God bless you.