“The Lord who rescued me from the claws of the lion and the bear will rescue me from this Philistine!”
—1 Samuel 17:37 (NLT)
David’s confidence in facing Goliath didn’t come from arrogance or youthful overconfidence. It came from history—his history with God. Long before he stood before a giant, David had been tested in hidden places. While watching sheep, he had already fought and defeated both a lion and a bear. Alone. Unseen. But never without God.
This verse isn’t just about courage—it’s about remembered faithfulness.
When King Saul doubted David’s ability to face Goliath, David didn’t respond with bravado. He didn’t say, “I’ve got this.” He said, in effect, “God’s got this—and I know it because He’s done it before.”
That’s a powerful principle for anyone facing a battle.
1. Your Private Battles Prepare You for Public Victory
David’s courage in the valley started in the pasture. He learned to trust God in obscurity before God used him in notoriety. Sometimes, we want the public win without walking through the private training ground. But it’s those quiet moments of struggle—when no one else sees—that forge a deep confidence in God.
2. Your Testimonies Build Your Faith
David didn’t just have experiences—he remembered them. “The Lord who rescued me…” This isn’t nostalgia; it’s foundation. When you face something intimidating, recall what God has already done for you. It’s not just “a nice memory”—it’s evidence of His track record.
Your lion and bear stories matter. Write them down. Talk about them. Let them fuel your prayers.
3. God’s Past Faithfulness Is the Best Predictor of His Future Help
David didn’t claim he could beat Goliath. He said God would deliver him—because God had before. When we remember how God has come through in the past, it strengthens our hope for today and tomorrow.
If He was faithful in your past season, He will be faithful in this one. He doesn’t change.
What’s Your Philistine Right Now?
Maybe it’s a financial mountain, a health diagnosis, a prodigal child, or a ministry challenge. Maybe you’re in a season that feels bigger than you. But God has not changed. Remember how He led you through before. Think about the prayers He answered, the doors He opened, the comfort He gave, the strength He provided.
You are not facing this alone.
So take a deep breath, lift your head, and say like David:
“The Lord who rescued me… will rescue me again.”
