An Attitude of Faith

“All those gathered here will know that it is not by sword or spear that the Lord saves; for the battle is the Lord’s, and he will give all of you into our hands.” 1 Samuel 17:47

Kids are often reminded about their attitude. Whether it is a teacher pointing out grumpiness about school work, a coach asking players to stop complaining about drills, or a parent teaching the importance of having a good attitude, kids are encouraged to reflect on their frame of mind. But as adults, I think we are less aware. We aren’t regularly asked to reflect on our attitude, but our attitude in life is important. Our frame of mind impacts our actions and those around us. David is a prime example of how trusting God can impact our attitudes and our lives.

The story of David and Goliath is a childhood favorite. The classic tale of an underdog victory is popular among many circles. But it isn’t just a story about a big win, it is a story about confidence in the Lord and the attitude of faith. In 1 Samuel 17 the Israelites are facing the Philistines in battle and things are not looking good. The Philistines have Goliath, a massive warrior, on their side. Each day he comes out to taunt the Israelites and each day they run away in fear and dismay (vs 11).

For many of the Israelites, the obstacle in their way changed their frame of mind. Seeing Goliath led them to an attitude of fear and rejection. They didn’t believe that they could beat him. But one person had a different perspective. When David arrives and sees what is going on he begins asking questions, to see if he can fight Goliath. His older brothers hear him, and they are appalled. They mock him and don’t think he is capable. Even Saul thinks he is too young to fight. But, David’s confidence will not be swayed and he enters battle.

He approaches Goliath with nothing but a sling and a stone. I imagine that David might have felt some fear as he stared up at Goliath, but his confident attitude remained. He didn’t let the negative words from others change what he knew to be true; that God was on his side. Before he even took his shot against Goliath, David declared the source of his confidence. David let everyone know that he was not relying on his own strength but that the battle was the Lord’s. Moments later, with one shot from his sling, Goliath was defeated and Israel was victorious.

David’s positive attitude wasn’t because he was the best warrior or smartest person, David was confident because he trusted God to save him. David allowed his faith to determine his frame of mind.

When we face giants in our path that seem too large, it is tempting to become disheartened or complain. But we know that each of our battles belong to the Lord. Therefore, we too can have an attitude of confidence, knowing that God is on our side.

Take a moment to reflect on your own attitude this week. Has your attitude been one of confidence and gratitude or dismay and frustration? What can you do to reframe your mind and put your trust back in the Lord?

Prayer

Heavenly Father, We thank you for the story of David and for the confidence and faith he showed. Thank you for the reminder that the battle is yours. No matter how large the challenges seem, we can remain confident because you are on our side. Help that truth to change our attitudes and in turn make people wonder what makes us so positive and grateful. We pray this in your son’s name, Amen.

Makalah Scholten
Spiritual Care Coordinator

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