Years ago, Pastor Ricks was preaching a message to the congregation assembled at one of the Sunday morning services. In his message, he used the phrase “stay focused”. His intent was to first address the reality that at times our focus can be clouded or distorted based upon immediate situations and circumstances. And secondly, he wanted to redirect our spiritual eyes to the source of our hope and deliverance. Too much of our time is caught up into these things can weaken our faith. As the people of God, we represent a glorious and godly Kingdom.

Israel experienced something similar when the Philistines sought to overcome and takeover (I Samuel 17) them. The Philistines and their champion warrior, Goliath challenged the army of the Lord and a short standoff ensued. The Philistines on one mountain, the Israelites on another and a valley between them. While intimidation and conquer was in the minds of the enemy, fear and doubt gripped the people of God. Their focused was distorted by the size and the immediate threat of the opposing armies.

Our situations may be as real as they are, but we are never to forget but ever be reminded of the God we serve is able to settle our hearts and refocus of faith. As intimating as they are, God is and will always the mighty God who rules, reigns delivers and defends his people – his name sake. True, we are not able to save ourselves or others from every situation, but Eph. 3:20 reminds us God is able. David was told by soldiers in the Lord’s army that he was not skilled enough to challenge the nine-foot warrior of warriors of the mighty Philistine army. They had lost their focus. These were God’s people who had succumbed to the threat before them and lost focus of who they represented. But David had these words for them and these words speak a timeless truth to us today.

"Moreover David said, “The Lord, who delivered me from the paw of the lion and from the paw of the bear, He will deliver me from the hand of this Philistine.” I Samuel 17:37

David demonstrated a level of peace, confidence and authority over the enemy of God. It was not as personal as we may consider but it became personal when God’s name was profaned and people threatened. Regardless of the threat, we are always encouraged that nothing is above the power of our God.

Daily seek the Lord our God to be refocused by the authority we live in which offers us the spirit of power, love and a sound mind (II Tim. 1:7). The Lord will settle us and give us peace that surpasses all human comprehension.