Doing your best with what you have. 1 Sam. 17:40 – 52

As we navigate the early stages of this new year, it will be very important to face the days of uncertainty ahead with the utmost of confidence and trust in the Lord. Too often God’s people believe that in order to live life abundantly, accomplish what we desire, and withstand life’s opposition and obstacles, we must always have within our means adequate resources at our immediate disposal to be victorious. Matter of fact, there are many tasks gone lacking, deeds gone undone, battles gone unengaged, all because one has concluded that the effort is not worth it because one does not have the desired resources available to fight the battle or in many cases, meet the devil head on. But each day that God gives us a wakeup-call one can learn through experiencing the move of the hand of God that in order to navigate life’s journey, overcome obstacles, defy odds, fight daily battles, and rise up against the giants in life one cannot wait until you get the resources you think you need to fight the battle to be victorious. One must have faith in God to do the best they can with what they have.

This is held true in the age-old story of David and Goliath as outlined in our scripture lesson. We find David the shepherd boy facing the giant Goliath. Correspondingly, one can discern that to fight the giants of life that we too are sure to encounter in this new year of 2020, we must be willing to do the best with what we have and allow God to give the increase for our victory. One must have the faith of David to show up for the battle and without hesitation or mental reservation use what you have available at your disposal. With faith in almighty God David used what was at his disposal, which did not look like much to fight with; five smooth stones to face this giant. Remember, David’s testimony of the Lord to Goliath in verse 47, “all shall know that the Lord does not save with sword and spear: for the battle is the Lord’s, and he will give you into our hands.” The same should be our belief and testimony that the Lord will deliver the enemy unto our hands in this new year if we only resolve to do the best with what we have. As this year of uncertainty unfolds there may be many opportunities for this to be a reality in our lives. But remember, have faith in God to just do your best with what you have, and the Lord will give the increase for victory.

REV. JAMES TAYLOR III is the pastor of the Jericho Baptist Church in Farmville. His email address is: jht3@verizon.net.