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Did you ever think about this: David had to be able to kill Goliath, because that was the deed which propelled him to eventually become the King. It made his reputation and paved the way for God’s plan for him. But it began in those lonely fields as a shepherd boy, slinging stones from a slingshot day in and day out, and learning how to kill big enemies in unconventional ways.
So, when facing Goliath, David was prepared for the job. He used his creative thinking and refused to try to do it Saul’s way, which would have meant defeat. He used his slingshot—a most unlikely weapon, but God gave him that skill to prepare him for this incredible challenge. He could kill a giant with a slingshot.
Where are you now? In the fields, all alone, being prepared by God for what is coming? You see, David didn’t know, when he was tending sheep, that God was preparing him to be King. He had no idea. But he did that job well, and while he was doing it, he learned to do other things—like play a harp, write poetry, aim a slingshot really well, and tackle an enemy of overwhelming odds.
Maybe you’re on the battleground and your giant, your Goliath is staring at you, taunting you. Are you tempted to fight in someone else’s armor? Remember, if God has brought you to that battlefield, he has a plan to make you victorious; but don’t get “out of yourself.” David knew how to “stay within himself” and not try to mimic others or be intimidated when others told him what he should do or how he should do it. David knew that God had equipped him to be able to slay this giant, and he wasn’t afraid to try. It wasn’t a matter of pride or conceit; he just knew he had a skill from God that now God wanted to use.
You remember that David’s brother was angry that David would try to kill Goliath, and told him to just go back home. When others tell you that you can’t do it, to quit, or they belittle you in some way, remember David. If he had allowed his brother’s remarks to get to him, he would have just turned around and gone back to the sheep. He never would have defeated Goliath. But he was willing to step out even in the face of his brother’s protests and bad-mouthing.
If God has told you to use a slingshot, then use it. Don’t let the “Sauls” in your life dictate how you are to attack your giant, if you know God has given you directions. Many times well-meaning people will give us poor advice. Certainly Saul thought it would be best for David to wear all that armor, but David knew better. A conventional one-on-one sword battle would have wiped David out in a few seconds.
Learn from David to use your “slingshot” for the honor and glory of God.