I recently drafted a one question survey, and submitted it to numerous individuals in preparation for a message I delivered at a local community church. The survey simply asked, “What giants are you facing?” 

My nephew replied with the following clarifying question, “Problems?” Yep! That is exactly what we’re talking about...problems! Now, on any given day we face a series of micro-problems to solve. That’s not the kind we are focusing on here. We are talking about the situations or seasons that place us toe-to-toe with a “giant.” Problems or obstacles that seem so big, they may appear insurmountable. 

I received so many survey replies! I was pleasantly surprised at the open, honest answers. Some “giants” that people identified were; fear, doubt, overcoming past traumas, relationships, smoking, self-acceptance, confidence, health concerns, confidence in one’s ability to reach people for Christ, worrying about things beyond control, restressing about the past, bitterness, and salvation of loved ones.

During my professional career in property management, I came to appreciate how valuable problem-solving skills are in conducting business. Of course, I would prefer to prevent a problem whenever possible, and avert the often greater effort it takes to come up with a resolution or remedy. I found that over time, I was able to grow my problem-solving abilities. I eventually came to appreciate how important it is to have the right kind of knowledge that you need to succeed - it can change your whole perspective on what appears to be an overwhelming problem.

Knowledge and wisdom are important tools for most situations. I was once given a very wise piece of advice, although I rejected it at the time. I worked for a very kind and smart company owner, his name was Loren. At the time I was about 20 years old. I can’t recall what prompted the conversation, but I will never forget that Loren turned to me and said, “Do you know what I do when I am stressed out?” I replied, “no.” To my surprise, he said, “I read the Bible.” 

I remember thinking, “weird!” and I rejected the advice internally. Oh, how thankful I am today for those who are willing to be obedient to God’s prompting and boldly share the gospel! I am  grateful that God is patient, merciful, and loving. Although I did not see it at the time, Loren was pointing me to the most valuable problem-solving advice, the ultimate problem-solving strategy guide for real life problems, small, medium, and giant. I don’t want to even think of the needless hours I later would spend worrying about things beyond my control, and forfeiting the joy and peace that I have now found through a personal relationship with Jesus.

I never would have guessed that someday I would cherish the time I spend reading the Bible, or find myself quoting scripture relevant to issues that come up. Like David, I learned to rely on the Lord, and I don’t face my “giants” alone anymore. When we read the story of David & Goliath, an inexperienced youth facing a huge warrior, we learn that David trusted in God for the victory of the battle. Contrasted with the rest of the soldiers facing Goliath, which is found in 1 Samuel 17:24,  “Whenever the Israelites saw the man, they all fled from him in great fear.” While they fled in fear, we see the contrast when comparing their reaction to David’s confidence as he RAN to the battle line to meet the giant, he was confident that the battle belonged to the Lord, as we take a look at 1 Samuel 17:48-49, “As the Philistine moved closer to attack him, David ran quickly toward the battle line to meet him. Reaching into his bag and taking out a stone, he slung it and struck the Philistine on the forehead. The stone sank into his forehead, and he fell facedown on the ground.”

I pray this story encourages you to identify your own “giants” and then invite God to come alongside you, placing your confidence and trust in His strength, and letting the battle be His. 

One scripture that ministers to me when problems arise is found in John 16:33 “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”