In my humble opinion, I believe every person who has ever walked on this earth has faced at least one giant in their life. I’m not talking about huge scary monsters standing before you. I’m talking about situations that we face which seem insurmountable.
The giants we face may test our faith, security, and endurance. Some people may handle adversity well. Some, however, easily become defeated. That’s where leaning on a strong faith is so important. Scripture says (2 Corinthians 4:8-12): “We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed. We always carry around in our body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be revealed in our body. For we who are alive are always being given over to death for Jesus’ sake, so that his life may also be revealed in our mortal body. So then, death is at work in us, but life is at work in you.”
When Paul wrote to the Corinthians, he described the pressures and persecutions they endured. Through it all, he emphasized God’s sustaining power. Whether we face financial difficulties, emotional stress, threats of violence, health problems, or personal loss, the weight can feel unbearable. We are reminded that despite the severity of our trials, we are upheld by a power greater than any of the giants we face in life. Difficulties with family, community, churches, and even our own hearts prey upon us every single day, but Paul reminds us that it is God’s strength, not our own, that prevents us from being crushed.
Whether you’re the victim of violence, the spouse of an infidelity, a neglected child, on trial for a crime you didn’t commit, suffering from a health crisis, or financial hardships, the struggle becomes a giant that seems insurmountable. No matter what’s visibly going on in someone’s life, we truly don’t know, nor can we appreciate their struggles. They are personal to them. When faced with my own giants, I had to learn to get up, suit up, and show up every day. Take the next step every day. Defeat that giant through purpose, perseverance and proper perspective every day.
One of my favorite Bible stories is the story of David and Goliath. As a shepherd, David was in charge of protecting his flock from the elements and predators. He was nimble enough to run and climb quickly, yet strong enough to fend off lions and bears. His weapon of choice was a slingshot, easy to carry and ammunition (rocks) were everywhere. He became very good at what he did.
Then along comes Goliath. Ten times the size of David, five times his weight, and covered with armor from head to toe. His sword was bigger than David was tall. Goliath’s reputation alone made soldiers faint, fleeing to the hills rather than face him in battle. Then David shows up.
The trembling Israelites behind David were shouting, “Man, you’re crazy. There’s no way you can beat this guy. Give it up!” But David paid little attention to them as he was preparing for combat, saying, “Sure, he’s big … but he’s too big to miss!”
Our problems may seem as big as a giant, but they are only a matter of perspective. Don’t give up hope. There is nothing that can’t be overcome by taking the next step. God promises in scripture: “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” (Jeremiah 29:11)
Debby Efurd is co-founder of Cary John Efurd Ministries of Pittsburg, TX. She has been a contributor to Bound for Life and written numerous articles published in LifeNews, Christian Post and the Baptist Standard, and is the author of Go Tell It! Debby can be contacted at caryjohnefurdministries@gmail.com.
Tagged: Bible stories, health journey, perseverance, scripture
