O God, You have taught me from my youth; and to this day I declare Your wondrous works. (Psalm 71:17)
Have you ever wondered how it is that David, a young man untrained in the art of war, was inspired and confident to face the Philistine’s champion, Goliath? The Bible describes a young shepherd boy who did not hesitate to confront this giant of a man even though every other man in Israel’s army, including the king, was obviously intimidated. Ultimately, we know the answer — he trusted God to deliver the uncircumcised Philistine into his hand. But does one set out to deliver food to their brothers and then, discovering a crisis unfolding before them, decide to take on a task they have not trained for? Or is it that he was trained for it?
As David said, “You have taught me from my youth,” a statement I would suggest includes being trained to face foes more powerful and cunning than a lad armed only with a sling. It seems that David’s upbringing did not allow for much childish play. Instead, his days and nights were likely filled with watching over the helpless — protecting them and himself from the paw of the lion and the paw of the bear. At the time, it probably seemed to be a tedious and stressful chore, but in reality, he was being trained for greater things.
No one wakes up one day, flips a switch and suddenly becomes everything God has called them to be — it simply doesn’t work that way. Coming into the fulness of what God has intended for us is a process — sometimes a lifelong process. Understanding this, it’s important that we not discount those times and seasons when we are engaged in activities or relationships that we consider to be inconsequential. Actually, if we believe that God directs our path, then we must conclude that Paul was right when he said, “All things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose” (Romans 8:28).
So then, if God is allowing you and yours to be attacked by a lion or bear, it is to reveal His faithfulness, which becomes evident when He delivers you from their reach. But that being so, we should not ignore the fact that He is also training you — preparing you — for the day when you will be called upon to face the giants who stand in the way of God’s purpose for you and your family. In the end, when the battle is won, you will declare His “wondrous works.”
Blessings and Shalom,
Bill
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