Dare to Be You!

How many times have you looked at others and longed to be just like them? Too many, I’m afraid. A famous singer, a talented artist, a gifted architect, a successful author, and the list goes on. Maybe, you’d like to be as jovial, friendly, elegant, or personable as someone in your workplace, church, neighborhood, or even in your family.

Over the past two weeks I’ve heard different variations of the story of David and Goliath. Coincidence? I don’t think so.
The original version is in the Bible in I Samuel 17 & 18. However, the first person delving into this story was an author friend who asked me to edit an upcoming blog post, while another was from a friend who writes devotions. Then, last Sunday, my pastor preached on another angle in the David and Goliath story. Each one focused on different aspects of David’s life that were well worth the read. However, my ears perked up when these words rolled from Pastor Derek’s lips:

     “God never called you to fit into someone else’s armor.”    

Wow! What a powerful statement!

In the story, Saul gave David his armor to wear into battle as he confronted Goliath, but after trying it on, David shed the armor because it didn’t fit. It was too big and restricted him from moving as freely as he wanted. David refused Saul’s sword because it was too heavy and wasn’t his weapon of choice.

David selected some smooth stones for his slingshot. Instead of running from Goliath in fear, David stood as tall as a teen boy could stand and faced the giant with confidence. His trust was not in the stones or in his own strength; it was in the power of his God to deliver the giant into his hand, and God did.

Bullying has been around for a long, long time and this story is a perfect example. A young shepherd boy faced an armored giant with what would be considered a child’s toy today—a slingshot. Imagine the ridicule David endured as the soldiers, armed for battle, made fun of his small frame and immaturity. Even his brother called him conceited and wicked, but David didn’t let negativity stop him. He stood firm in what he believed.

The fact is, David dared to be himself and not listen to the degrading badgering of others. He stepped out in faith and conquered the task before him—Goliath.

You are like David; an individual, a one-of-a-kind, and no one could ever fill your shoes or take your place.

Don’t let the bullying of others cause you to bury your dreams. Step out in faith and conquer those giants that hold you back.

Don’t try to be someone else.

Dare to be yourself . . . hold your head high. God only made one YOU.

Loretta