Stronger and Better – Dr. Hona Amer

Scripture:

“Saul answered David, ‘You can’t go and fight this Philistine. You’re too young and inexperienced—and he’s been at this fighting business since before you were born.’ David said, ‘I’ve been a shepherd, tending sheep for my father. Whenever a lion or bear came and took a lamb from the flock, I’d go after it, knock it down, and rescue the lamb. If it turned on me, I’d grab it by the throat, wring its neck, and kill it. Lion or bear, it made no difference—I killed it. And I’ll do the same to this Philistine pig who is taunting the troops of God-Alive. God, who delivered me from the teeth of the lion and the claws of the bear, will deliver me from this Philistine’.” 1 Samuel 17:33-37 (MSG)

Perspective:

Can you remember a time when someone said that you can’t? You can’t go to college and graduate. You can’t be debt-free. You can’t start your own business. You can’t write a book. You can’t follow your dreams. Their voice seems to echo in your mind. You had all of these plans to accomplish something significant, and the words “you can’t” have almost taken you out of the game.

When David volunteered to fight Goliath, Saul told him, “You can’t.” Saul saw David’s lack of ability as a obstacle. But, Saul didn’t know the whole story. David began remembering the lion and the bear. Imagine the day when David killed the lion or bear. He was just doing his job – tending the sheep for his dad. He was not seeking out opposition or struggle. However, when the lion attacked, he had a choice. He could run away or face the lion. The situation would make him a coward or a fighter. After he killed the lion, he had no idea that he was becoming stronger and better. He did not know that there would be a larger battle with Goliath in his future, but God did. As David faced the lion and the bear, God was preparing him for greater victories. So, the day he faced Goliath, he had the confidence, expereince, and knowledge to face the battle rather than run. In the same way, God is grooming you for greater victories in the future. The battles that you are facing that seem insurmountable are preparing you. You have the choice to be smaller and bitter by the challenge or stronger and better. When you choose to become stronger in spite of opposition, you will be ready for even greater victories. Allow your faith and confidence in God to increase. As God enables you, “I can’t” will no longer be in your vocabulary.