Victories Won In Faith Series

VICTORIES WON IN FAITH

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: 1 Samuel 17:1-54

Supporting Texts: Hebrews 11:32-34, 1 John 5:4, Romans 8:37, Psalm 44:6-7, Ephesians 6:16

INTRODUCTION:

In every generation, God raises men and women who defy the odds and overcome great obstacles—not by physical might, but by faith. One of the most powerful stories of faith in the Bible is David’s encounter with Goliath. A young shepherd with no military background confronted and defeated a seasoned warrior, not with sword or spear, but with unwavering confidence in the power and presence of God.

The battle between David and Goliath was not just physical—it was spiritual. Goliath represented fear, intimidation, and pride, while David stood as a symbol of faith, courage, and trust in God. While the armies of Israel cowered in fear, David ran toward the challenge with a declaration of faith that shifted the atmosphere and changed history.

This teaching will explore how true victories are birthed and sustained through faith in God. It is not about the size of the enemy, but the size of your belief in God. Faith is the victory that overcomes the world.

1. FAITH SEES OPPORTUNITY WHERE OTHERS SEE DEFEAT

Faith has a different perspective—it sees with the eyes of the spirit.

a) The entire army of Israel was paralysed by fear (1 Samuel 17:11, 24)

Despite their training and numbers, they were dismayed because of the size and threats of Goliath.

b) David saw the battle as an opportunity for God to be glorified (1 Samuel 17:26)

He did not view Goliath as a problem but as a platform for divine victory.

c) Faith does not focus on the size of the enemy but on the greatness of God

While others measured the threat, David remembered the covenant.

d) Your perspective in battle will determine your position in victory

Those who look with fear will retreat, but those who look with faith will rise.

Biblical Example: Caleb and Joshua saw the Promised Land as attainable while others saw giants and defeat (Numbers 13:30).

2. FAITH IS BIRTHED AND STRENGTHENED IN PAST VICTORIES

Those who walk by faith draw courage from God's track record.

a) David recalled how God delivered him from the lion and the bear (1 Samuel 17:34-37)

His past victories became the fuel for present faith.

b) Faith remembers and rehearses the testimonies of God’s help

Your history with God gives confidence for your future challenges.

c) The same God who helped you before will show up again

He does not change—He is the same yesterday, today, and forever.

d) Testimonies are the building blocks of bold faith

What God did in the secret place will empower you in public battles.

Biblical Example: Paul’s confidence to face shipwrecks and persecution was anchored in God's past deliverances (2 Corinthians 1:10).

3. FAITH SPEAKS WITH CONFIDENCE AND DECLARATION

Faith is not silent—it boldly declares what it believes.

a) David declared victory before the battle began (1 Samuel 17:45-47)

He spoke words of faith and proclaimed God’s power before taking any action.

b) Faith-filled speech sets the tone for supernatural victory

Words are spiritual weapons; faith speaks life into every battle.

c) David prophesied Goliath’s downfall and God’s glory in the battle

He did not beg for victory—he announced it in advance.

d) What you say in battle reveals what you believe

Fear speaks doubt; faith declares triumph.

Biblical Example: Jesus spoke to the storm with authority and it obeyed (Mark 4:39-41).

4. FAITH RELIES ON GOD, NOT HUMAN WEAPONS OR STRATEGIES

Victory in God’s kingdom comes through trust, not technique.

a) David refused Saul’s armour and chose a sling and stones (1 Samuel 17:38-40)

He did not rely on untested tools but trusted the God he knew.

b) Faith rests in God's methods, not man’s might

God often uses the simple and unexpected to bring about great victories.

c) Your confidence must be in the God behind the weapon, not the weapon itself

What works is what God backs—not what looks impressive.

d) Faith requires walking in your divine uniqueness and grace

David won by staying in his lane—not by imitating Saul.

Biblical Example: Gideon won with 300 men and trumpets, not swords (Judges 7:19-22).

5. FAITH RESULTS IN TOTAL AND UNDENIABLE VICTORY

When faith is active, the result is always supernatural breakthrough.

a) David struck Goliath with a single stone and cut off his head (1 Samuel 17:49-51)

What looked impossible was over in moments because faith was involved.

b) God uses faith to turn underdogs into overcomers

One moment of faith can change your story forever.

c) The same people who feared now rejoiced and pursued the enemy (1 Samuel 17:52-53)

Faith inspires others and shifts the atmosphere from fear to courage.

d) Faith in God is never wasted—it always brings honour to His name