“And all this assembly shall know that the LORD saveth not with sword and spear: for the battle is the LORD’S, and he will give you into our hands.”
Context:Before delving into the specific verse, it’s important to understand the context of 1 Samuel 17. This chapter recounts the famous story of David and Goliath. Goliath, a giant Philistine warrior, challenges the Israelites to send out a champion to fight him. David, a young shepherd boy, volunteers to face Goliath, relying on his faith in God.
- “And all this assembly shall know”: David confidently declares that everyone gathered, including both Israelites and Philistines, will witness God’s power and deliverance.
- “that the LORD saveth not with sword and spear”: David emphasizes that God’s deliverance is not dependent on human strength or weapons. He contrasts Goliath’s reliance on his physical prowess with God’s power to save.
- “for the battle is the LORD’S”: David acknowledges that the ultimate authority and control in any battle belong to the Lord. He recognizes that victory does not come through human might alone but is dependent on God’s intervention.
- “and he will give you into our hands”: David expresses his faith that God will grant the Israelites victory over their enemies. He believes that God will deliver the Philistines into their hands.
Lessons and Applications:
- Faith in God’s power:David’s declaration highlights his unwavering faith in God’s ability to save. It teaches us that when facing challenges, we should trust in God’s strength rather than relying solely on our own resources.
- The battle belongs to the Lord:David’s words remind us that in every aspect of life, God is ultimately in control. We may face obstacles, but when we surrender our battles to Him, He can work on our behalf.
- God’s unconventional methods:David’s victory over Goliath shows that God’s ways often surpass human understanding. He used a young shepherd boy armed with a sling and stones to defeat a giant warrior. This reminds us that God can use unlikely means to accomplish His purposes.
- Confidence in God’s deliverance:David’s boldness stems from his confidence in God’s faithfulness. Similarly, we can find courage in knowing that God is faithful and will come to our aid in times of trouble.
