Stepping Onto the Battlefield
By Dr. Chuck Hill – July 2, 2025
Some stories never get old. This morning, I found myself back in 1 Samuel 17, reading once again about David and Goliath. Though I’ve read it countless times, today I was struck by something simple yet profound: David’s instinct to honor God when no one else would. It wasn’t about proving himself or chasing a fight. It was about doing what was right in the eyes of God, even when it required stepping into a battle he never planned to fight.
Consider this: David left the quiet safety of the pasture and stepped into the chaos of the battlefield. He walked away from what was familiar and secure, carrying only faith, a sling, and five smooth stones. While experienced soldiers shrank back in fear, David stood firm, confident that God’s presence and power would be with him.
David didn’t come looking for a fight; he came to serve. But when he saw Goliath defying the people of God, he couldn’t remain silent. He chose to step forward, trusting God in the face of overwhelming odds, and did what no one else was willing to do. His faith must have echoed loudly throughout the Valley of Elah as he approached that towering giant. Notice the confidence in his declaration:
“David said to the Philistine, ‘You come against me with sword and spear and javelin, but I come against you in the name of the Lord Almighty… All those gathered here will know that it is not by sword or spear that the Lord saves; for the battle is the Lord’s, and he will give all of you into our hands.’”
— 1 Samuel 17:45, 47 (NIV)
We live in a culture where fear and passivity often dominate—even within ministry. We see challenges in our churches, communities, and culture that can feel as intimidating as Goliath standing in the valley, taunting us, daring us to step forward. It is easy to retreat to the pasture—where it’s safe, familiar, and comfortable. It’s easy to talk about courage while remaining on the sidelines, never taking the risk of stepping forward in faith.
But God calls us, like David, to step onto the battlefield. He looks to us to:
- Confront sin with grace and truth.
- Speak up for the voiceless.
- Lead with faith when others only see fear.
- Preach the Word boldly when culture pressures silence.
- Pray big prayers when others have settled for small ones.
- Forgive when it would be easier to hold a grudge.
God is still looking for leaders with a bent toward righteousness—leaders who honor Him above personal safety, comfort, or popularity. He is looking for leaders who trust His power and presence in every battle they face, leaders who are willing to step forward even when the odds seem impossible.
I wonder today: Is there a conversation you’re avoiding? A step of obedience you’ve delayed? A prayer you need to pray that feels too big? A vision you need to pursue? A compromise you need to confront in your own heart or ministry?
Remember, the same God who was with David then is with you now. The battle is not yours; it belongs to the Lord. Even so, it is your sling, your faith, your courage, and your willingness to step forward that God will use to overcome the challenge and defeat the enemy before you.
As I reflect on this story, I am challenged once again to lead with courage and faith, and to take steps forward into what God is calling me to do—even if it feels like I’m stepping onto a battlefield with only five smooth stones in my hand. In this moment, I will trust in the Lord, and I will obey His call.
Will you do the same?
God is calling us to stand firm in a world that wavers and to move forward in faith, trusting that He will honor our obedience in ways we cannot yet see. We don’t have to wait for perfect conditions to act; let’s step forward today, believing that God will meet us in the valley and bring victory for His glory and the good of His people.
If this encouraged you, share it with another leader who needs a reminder to step onto the battlefield with faith today. And let’s continue to lead boldly, trusting God each step of the way. – Chuck