Anxiety. Comparison. Financial regret. Strained friendships. A marriage on the ropes. Work overload. Failing grades.
Eventually every one of us finds ourselves staring down a giant in our lives, and we’re faced with this reality: I don’t know how to defeat this thing. I don’t know how to win this battle.
If you find yourself in that kind of place today, you can learn some valuable lessons from one of the most well-known stories in the Bible, when David found himself staring down a nine-foot-tall enemy warrior named Goliath. And like David, you’ll find that by relying on God’s strength, not our own, we have everything we need to overcome the obstacles standing in our way.
Scripture Passage: 1 Samuel 17:32-50
Study Guide
Introduction
- Reflect: Identify a situation in your life that feels impossible to overcome. Consider both external and internal challenges.
- Pray: Ask God for clarity and strength as you begin this study.
Study Passage: 1 Samuel 17:32-50
- Consider the context and the actions of David.
- Reflect: How does David’s response to Goliath differ from the others around him?
Key Themes and Lessons
Recall God’s Past Faithfulness
- Think about times in your life when God has been faithful. How can these memories fuel your faith today?
- Write down specific instances where you have seen God’s hand at work in your life.
Identify Your Giant
- What is the biggest battle you are facing right now? Is it fear, shame, addiction, comparison, or doubt?
- Clearly define this giant. You can’t defeat what you don’t define.
Stop Trying to Wear Someone Else’s Armor
- Are there ways you are trying to fight your battles by imitating others?
- List the unique gifts, experiences, and strengths God has given you. How can you use these to face your challenges?
Rely on God’s Power, Not Your Own
- Make prayer your first response, not your last resort. Spend time each day praying specifically about your giant.
- Find and memorize scripture that speaks truth over your situation. Consider verses like Philippians 4:13 or Isaiah 41:10.
- Identify people in your life who encourage your faith. Reach out to them for support and accountability.
- How does knowing that “the battle is the Lord’s” change your perspective on your giant?
Next Step
- What is one practical step you can take this week to face your giant? Consider actions like having a tough conversation, confessing a struggle, or trusting God with something that feels out of control. Commit to taking this step, trusting that God is with you.
Prayer
Thank God for His presence and power in your life. Ask for courage and faith as you move forward.
Weekly Check-In
- At the end of the week, review your progress. How have you seen God at work?
- Continue to seek God’s guidance and strength as you face your giants.
This study guide is designed to help you engage deeply with the themes of the sermon and apply them to your life. Remember, your giant may be big, but your God is bigger. You don’t have to fight alone.
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