One of the most significant statements in 1 Samuel 17 is found in verse 32: “Let no one lose heart on account of this Philistine; your servant will go and fight him.” (1 Samuel 17:32) Difficult circumstances are not the real problem in our lives. Losing heart is. As the saying goes, “An entire sea of water can’t sink a ship unless it gets inside the ship. Similarly, the negativity of the world can’t put you down unless you allow it to get inside you.”
The Bible has much to say about not losing heart:
- Therefore, since through God’s mercy we have this ministry, we do not lose heart. (2 Cor 4:1)
- Therefore we do not lose heart. Though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. (2 Cor 4:16)
- Consider him who endured such opposition from sinners, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart. (Heb 12:3)
- Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. (Gal 6:9)
- Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labour in the Lord is not in vain. (1 Cor 15:58)
The secret to not losing heart is to keep remembering God’s love, mercy, renewal, commitment and faithfulness. This is also where fellowship can be so important, for other people have a wider perspective at times and can encourage us when we feel like giving up (see Ecclesiastes 4:12). David’s actions gave heart to the Israelites; we can celebrate other people’s victories and rejoice with them. (Ps 20:4, Rom 12:15)
