Many people will celebrate your ability to conquer a giant. They will applaud your success, your strength, your accomplishments, and the battles you win publicly. When David defeated Goliath, songs were sung, crowds cheered, and his name became known throughout the land. But the greater test of David’s life was not Goliath, it was Saul.
Goliath was an obvious enemy. Saul was someone David once honored, served, loved, and remained loyal to. Goliath attacked David from the outside, but Saul wounded him personally. Goliath came with a sword and spear, but Saul came with jealousy, betrayal, rejection, false accusations, and repeated attempts to destroy David’s future.
Yet when David had the opportunity to take Saul’s life, he chose mercy over revenge. He refused to allow the pain of betrayal to corrupt the integrity of his heart. Defeating Goliath required a stone. Forgiving Saul required surrender.
The truth is, sometimes the greatest victory is not overcoming an enemy, it’s overcoming the temptation to become like the enemy.
Before we point to the Sauls in our lives, let us remember the many times God forgave us. The same grace we desire for ourselves is often the grace God is calling us to extend to others.
Defeating Goliath made David a hero. Forgiving Saul prepared him to be a king. The battle with Goliath was for David’s reputation. The battle with Saul was for David’s character. The giants you conquer may bring applause, but the people you forgive will make you Christlike.
Author Vicki L Kemp ✨
