Victory In The Valley – Confronting The Giants Of Life Series

VICTORY IN THE VALLEY – CONFRONTING THE GIANTS OF LIFE

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: 1 Samuel 17:1-58

Supporting Texts: Psalm 27:1-3, 2 Corinthians 10:4, Romans 8:37, Isaiah 41:10, Ephesians 6:10-13

INTRODUCTION:

Every believer will face a valley where a giant stands tall—defying faith, mocking destiny, and intimidating purpose. In 1 Samuel 17, the iconic battle between David and Goliath unfolds, not just as a historical victory, but as a divine blueprint for confronting the giants that threaten our advancement. It was a defining moment for David, Israel, and even Saul.

Giants are not merely physical—many believers face giants of fear, sin, stagnation, addiction, failure, and opposition. These giants parade in our valleys, challenging our confidence in God. But like David, those who are anointed, courageous, and full of faith can bring them down. The story of David and Goliath shows that no giant is too big when God is on your side.

David teaches us that battles are won not by size or sword, but by faith and divine backing. He stepped into the valley not with human weapons but with heavenly confidence. This chapter is a call to courage, spiritual warfare, and divine dependence. Your victory is not in what you carry—but in Who sent you.

1. GIANTS APPEAR WHEN DESTINY IS ABOUT TO UNFOLD

The presence of Goliath was not a coincidence—it was a setup for David’s elevation and Israel’s deliverance.

a) The Philistines Gathered to Intimidate Israel (1 Samuel 17:1-3)

The valley of Elah became the ground of confrontation. Giants often arise when something great is about to be birthed.

b) Goliath Was Tall, Armed, and Intimidating (1 Samuel 17:4-7)

He represented everything terrifying in the natural—strength, experience, and arrogance.

c) He Mocked Israel and Defied God for Forty Days (1 Samuel 17:8-10, 16)

The number forty symbolises testing. For over a month, Israel was paralysed by fear. Giants test your endurance and faith.

d) Saul and His Army Were Terrified (1 Samuel 17:11)

Even anointed leaders can become paralysed without fresh courage. The giant exposed the spiritual condition of the camp.

Biblical Example: Before the Red Sea parted, Pharaoh pursued Israel with mighty force—giants show up before breakthroughs (Exodus 14:9-13).

2. GOD USES ORDINARY OBEDIENCE TO UNLOCK EXTRAORDINARY OPPORTUNITIES

David did not go looking for Goliath; he simply obeyed his father. Faithful errands often lead to divine encounters.

a) Jesse Sent David to Deliver Food and Check on His Brothers (1 Samuel 17:17-20)

David was not trying to make a name—he was obeying a simple assignment. Obedience opens doors.

b) David Heard Goliath’s Boast as He Arrived (1 Samuel 17:23)

He wasn’t part of the army, but God positioned him at the right place and time.

c) David Responded Differently from Everyone Else (1 Samuel 17:26)

While others heard threats, David saw an opportunity to honour God.

d) Divine Appointments Often Begin as Menial Tasks

David’s path to kingship passed through shepherding and food delivery. God promotes the humble.

Biblical Example: Joseph was sent by his father to check on his brothers, but that errand led him to Egypt and eventually the palace (Genesis 37:13-28).

3. FAITH SEES POSSIBILITIES WHERE FEAR SEES OBSTACLES

David’s words, posture, and confidence revealed a man who saw God, not the giant. Faith changes perspective.

a) David’s Boldness Annoyed His Brother Eliab (1 Samuel 17:28)

Those closest to you may misunderstand your faith. Opposition can come even from within.

b) David Refused to Be Discouraged (1 Samuel 17:29-30)

He remained focused despite accusations and mockery. Faith is deaf to doubt.

c) Saul Doubted David’s Ability (1 Samuel 17:33)

Even the king said he was too young and inexperienced. But David's confidence was in God, not age or armour.

d) David Recounted Past Victories Over the Lion and Bear (1 Samuel 17:34-37)

Faith remembers past triumphs as fuel for future battles.

Biblical Example: Caleb and Joshua saw victory in Canaan while others saw defeat—because faith changes how we see giants (Numbers 13:30; 14:6-9).

4. SPIRITUAL BATTLES REQUIRE SPIRITUAL WEAPONS

David refused the armour of Saul. His strength was not in earthly weapons, but in divine strategy.

a) David Took His Staff, Five Stones, and a Sling (1 Samuel 17:40)

He chose what he was trained with. God uses what’s already in your hand.

b) Goliath Cursed David by His gods (1 Samuel 17:43-44)

This was not just a physical fight—it was a spiritual confrontation. Goliath invoked demonic forces.

c) David Declared Victory in the Name of the Lord (1 Samuel 17:45)

He came in covenant authority. The name of the Lord is a weapon more powerful than any sword.

d) God Guided the Stone to the Forehead of Goliath (1 Samuel 17:49)

One well-directed stone, released in faith, brought down the giant. God honours bold obedience.

Biblical Example: Jehoshaphat defeated his enemies through worship and praise—spiritual weapons won the battle (2 Chronicles 20:21-22).