The Voice of Truth, Proverbs 18

David and Goliath

Various themes of "David vs. Goliath" have been played out in the movies, plays, stories, and lived out in history in famous battles. The truth that David brought to Goliath serves as an excellent example of the contrasts discussed in Proverbs.

We are all foolish mockers at some level. In our own minds we are wise. We see this everyday, when the guilty get caught. My uncle, a retired DPS Trooper has told me that there is "No such thing as a law-abiding citizen." Meaning that everyone breaks the law at some point, somewhere. We just didn't get snagged.

The guilty seem to get remorseful only when they get caught and it affects their personal freedom. They feel "picked on" or "misunderstood". Herein, lies the heart of man. We blame others before we blame ourselves.

David gets a clear vision from God. He knows what needs to be done. In fact, David is down right upset that no one has responded the giant Philistine's taunts. Not only by Goliath, but by Goliath's brother's who were also challenging the army of Israel. In the bible, David picks up 5 smooth stones from a nearby brook (another reference here in Proverbs 18). I used to think that he picked that many because he was afraid he might miss, hinting of a little insecurity on David's part. Another believer shared with me that he may have picked up more stones to be sure he took care of Goliath's brothers too! David went to pick and end a fight.

The battle lines have been drawn and the foolish mocker Goliath puts his trust in his size, his army, and the situation. The king of Israel has a choice. Fortunately for him, he does listen to David (a young kid), even though the plan sounded outrageous. The rest is history.


"The Voice of Truth" by Mark Hall, Casting Crowns

Proverbs 18:1 - "An unfriendly man pursues selfish ends; he defies all sound judgment."

Body language gives off great signs. Ever had to deal with unfriendly people? Are you unfriendly? I enjoy working with people who are friendly, open to dialogue, and who offer help, guidance, insights, and response. In my Marketing business, I have dealt with all kinds - lawyers, engineers, media personalities, technologists, business owners, movie makers, etc. They all have an agenda to accomplish and each share a flexibity or limitation to advice. It is curious to discover how people view themselves and think, to discover their motivations.

Proverbs 18:6 - "A fool's lips bring him strife, and his mouth invites a beating."

Goliath invited a severe beating. Have you ever been in a position that you might be the one who might need to administer the beating?

I really dislike going to the movies and hearing some "loud mouth" talking in the middle of the movie or going to a public event and hearing (seems like the same guy) spouting off when people are trying to listen to the speaker. I used to be the guy who would go up to those people and tell them to shut up (nicely at first). I then would get a challenging posture, but then they would snap thinking to themselves, "This is a public event, I can't get in a fight here". I would say to myself "Exactly, now keep your mouth shut!" - enough said. I haven't had to do that in a long while.

Fortunately, in our society we don't have to prove our manhood by how many fights we can get into and we aren't on the battle front of old (unless you are in the military now). However, there is an ongoing battle and truth needs to be sought more than ever. Men have been sitting on the sidelines playing battle focused video games, esteeming their mixed martial artist or wrestling champions, rooting for their favorite sports team, and living vicariously through their favorite movie hero "Iron Man", "Braveheart", or "Gladiator". Where are you going to pick a spiritual fight? How are you engaging the "Goliaths" in your life?

Proverbs 18:12 - "Before his downfall a man's heart is proud, but humility comes before honor.

David was not proud of himself. He was proud of God. David brought food to his brothers who had been on the battle line all day. Hearing the taunts from the other side. He humbly asked a question. Basically, "What is this idiot doing out there and why isn't somebody kicking his butt?!"

David had the honor of proving the point. I think God could and would have used anyone else, if they had the willingness to shed their own pride. David didn't know what he did not know. He humbled himself and stepped out in faith and God met him on the battle line. How important is honor to you? Is there an opportunity to show honor on your horizon? Slay the giant!

Freedom Scene in "Braveheart"

On Mission, On Assignment, and in the ZONE!

Andy Valadez
e-mail: andy@marketingdynamics.org