that you may have strength to

One of my favorite stories in the Bible is the story of David & Goliath. Not just because it's a memorable fight (which appeals to the testosterone in me). Not just because of the rousing speech given in 1Sam17:45-47 (which appeals to the action movie fan in me). And not just because it stars David (which appeals to the imperfect Christian in me). But because it showcases the strength of God amidst our smallness.

Note that David takes five stones to fight Goliath instead of one. Did he think he'd miss? Did he think it would take more than one stone to down someone as large as Goliath? Did he for an instant think he'd have to win this on his own, that God wasn't really with him?

Whether or not some form of doubt crept into his mind, the Lord still delivered him. And that's the kind of God we have. No question that you will fall short, that you will doubt, that you will be small when the situation calls for bigness. But also no question that God is big enough to deliver you despite all these things. Those stones measure your level of faith and trust, and no matter the amount you carry to make you feel safe, that's a big God over there, and after delivering you, He'll remind you that you really needed only carry the one.