ODB: Living by Faith
February 12, 2022
READ: 1 Samuel 17:32, 40–47
We live by faith, not by sight. 2 Corinthians 5:7
Gary was experiencing some balance issues while walking, so his doctor ordered physical therapy to improve his balance. During one session his therapist told him, “You’re trusting too much in what you can see, even when it’s wrong! You’re not depending enough on your other systems—what you feel under your feet and your inner-ear signals—which are also meant to help keep you balanced.”
“You’re trusting too much in what you can see” brings to mind the story of David, a young shepherd, and his encounter with Goliath. For forty days, Goliath, a Philistine champion, “strutted in front of the Israelite army,” taunting them to send someone out to fight him (1 Samuel 17:16 nlt). But what the people focused on naturally caused them fear. Then young David showed up because his father asked him to take supplies to his older brothers (v. 18).
How did David look at the situation? By faith in God, not by sight. He saw the giant but trusted that God would rescue His people. Even though he was just a boy, he told King Saul, “Don’t worry about this Philistine . . . . I’ll go fight him!” (v. 32 nlt). Then he told Goliath, “The battle is the Lord’s, and he will give all of you into our hands” (v. 47). And that’s just what God did.
Trusting in God’s character and power can help us to live more closely by faith rather than by sight.
— Anne Cetas
What are you struggling with? What might it mean to walk by faith in God during this season?
Show me what it means in my struggles to trust You and Your character, dear God. You’re powerful and loving.
Source: Our Daily Bread
