Encountering God Through Scripture

"All those gathered here will know that it is not by sword or spear that the LORD saves; for the battle is the LORD's, and he will give all of you into our hands." - 1 Samuel 17:47

These words, boldly proclaimed by young David as he faced the towering Goliath, reveal a
profound truth about encountering God through Scripture: The Word of God becomes our
foundation for faith when facing impossible situations.

In this iconic scene, Israel's army trembled before Goliath, a nine-foot-tall warrior who had
taunted them for forty days. Conventional wisdom said there was no hope. Military
expertise said retreat was the only option. Human reason said death was certain for
anyone who dared to challenge this giant.

But David approached the battlefield with a different perspective—one formed by
Scripture. Though he didn't quote specific texts, his declaration reveals a mind and heart
saturated with biblical truth. Throughout Israel's history, God had repeatedly
demonstrated that victory comes not through human strength or weaponry but through His
power and faithfulness. From the exodus from Egypt to the conquest of Canaan, Scripture
recorded how the battle belonged to the Lord.

David's encounter with God through Scripture wasn't merely intellectual. He didn't just
know these stories; he internalized their truth so deeply that they transformed his
perception of reality. Where others saw an undefeatable enemy, David saw an opportunity
for God to display His power. Where others saw certain death, David saw certain victory—
not because of his own abilities, but because "the battle is the LORD's."

This Scripture-formed perspective gave David the courage to step forward when everyone
else stepped back. It empowered him to reject Saul's armor and rely instead on the
weapons God had trained him to use. It enabled him to stand firm in faith while others fled
in fear.

Like David, we face our own giants—challenges that seem insurmountable, enemies that
appear undefeatable, situations that look hopeless. In these moments, encountering God
through Scripture becomes essential. As we read, meditate on, and internalize God's
Word, we begin to see reality through His perspective rather than our limited human
understanding.

Scripture reminds us of God's character when circumstances make us doubt. It recalls
God's faithfulness when our present troubles suggest abandonment. It declares God's
power when our problems seem bigger than His ability to solve them. It pronounces God's
promises when our situation tempts us to despair.

How David’s Story Shows We Encounter God Through Scripture:

1. Scripture gives us courage. David didn’t listen to fear—he trusted what God had
already said.

2. God’s Word reminds us of His faithfulness. David had seen God work before and
knew He would do it again.

3. Faith grows when we stand on Scripture. David’s boldness came from knowing
God’s promises, not from his own abilities.