Three simple words, Just Do It, propelled Nike to unprecedented success in the tennis shoe industry. This slogan enhanced their notoriety all over the world. One could suggest that those little words changed the game for the shoe brand. If these few words could have such an impact on a shoe company, what could they do in our lives?
Often, we face difficulties and uncertainties which bring us to a crossroad. At the proverbial fork in the road, a decision is required. When faced with options, what do we do? Head left or right? What choice do we make? Neither path is clear. Both carry no guarantees yet a something must be done. Do we follow Nike’s guidance and just do it? Or do we pitch a tent at Camp Do Nothing? The choice is ours and time’s a wasting.
The Story: 1 Samuel 17
In 1 Samuel 17, Saul and his army found themselves at the same crossroad. As they hid at the battle lines, Goliath heralded threats at them and God daily. Unfortunately, no one in the army dared to step forward and challenge this massive individual, who appeared to have the ability to crush their army with one blow. Despite the opponent’s insults, the army made no gesture of forward movement. The army sat at the crossroad for 40 days with no sign of an upcoming decision.
However, all this changed when a young man had the assignment of bringing food to his brothers on the battle lines. Out of curiosity, this inquisitive youth asked, “what’s happening? Before anyone could respond, he heard the boastings and threats of the giant. Although unphased by the personal threats, he couldn’t tolerate the disrespect towards God. He decided that someone must teach giant about the true and living God.
The courageous young man was David. Because of his courage and confidence, David inquired of the army about the identity of the blasphemous attacker. One of his brothers, who cowered at the battle lines, was angry that David would ask such a question and thought David came to watch the battle. Unphased by his brother’s insinuations, David inquired about the situation from another soldier. With a made-up mind, David obtained the necessary information. With the king’s approval, David readied himself for battle. God.
When David appeared before the giant, Goliath showed his amusement at the sight of the young man. David, on the other hand, professed the outcome of anyone who came against God’s army. With that, the battled ended as quickly as it began with David becoming the victor.
The Lesson
What does David teach us:
- Beliefs matters – What we believe determines our actions. While Saul and his army believed that Goliath was an insurmountable adversary, David knew that the giant was no match for God. David went into an unlikely battle with the conviction that winning with God was the only option. What truths form your convictions?
- Just Do It – There’s no time like the present. We’ve flip flopped between fear and faith long enough. Like Saul and his army, we sat at the crossroad long enough. Time to make a decision like David and just do it. Face the giant knowing that the battle was over before it began. With God on our side, we operate from a place of victory.
What are you facing that’s had you on the sidelines for 40 days or even longer? What has you quivering at the very thought of advancing? As a result, take a moment to consider if making a move would be faster than simply sitting in at the place of indecision. Choose ye this day to stand on truth and just do it
