Influencing Change

For 40 days the Philistine giant Goliath challenged the people of God and no one did anything. In fact, the Bible says that, as the people looked at Goliath, they became “dismayed and terrified” (verse 11).

Then David came along. He ran out onto the battlefield and with the help of God, a sling and a few smooth stones, he knocked the giant out and killed him with his own sword. Then something amazing happened.

1 Samuel 17:51-52 says, “When the Philistines saw that their hero was dead, they turned and ran. Then the men of Israel and Judah surged forward with a shout and pursued the Philistines”.

Did you get that?

The once scared people of God suddenly found their courage. In fact, they became so brave and fought so well that they drove the Philistines back to their homeland and won a great victory.

All they needed was someone to go first. All they needed was someone to be an example and to show the way. All they needed was someone to take the first step. After that, they were not scared any more.

It is a story and a point that is repeated down through history: One person doing the right thing can change everything. One person standing up can give others the courage to stand up. Bravery and integrity are contagious.

So don't hold back. Do the good you know you should be doing. Look around and see what needs to be done and start doing it. You may be surprised to find that others will join you. Maybe they are just waiting for an example to follow.

Never underestimate the power of your example.

One person acting with God’s power can change everything.

Just ask David.

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