Weekly Lectio Divina: Face you Giants
From Heath Garcia, MAC(SW/AW) ret., Military Spiritual Director at ArchAngel Ministries
Dear friends in faith, especially my fellow service members and veterans,
In the spirit of our shared journeys through trials and triumphs, today’s Lectio Divina draws from the timeless story of David and Goliath (1 Samuel 17:32-49, NABRE).
This narrative reminds us that true strength comes not from armor or weapons, but from unwavering trust in God. As we navigate our own “battlefields” – whether in deployment, transition to civilian life, or personal struggles – let’s open our hearts to how God equips the unlikely for victory.
Take 10-15 minutes in a quiet space. Breathe deeply, inviting the Holy Spirit to guide you.
Scripture Passage (NABRE – New American Bible Revised Edition):
David Challenges Goliath
32 Then David spoke to Saul: “My lord should not lose heart. Let your servant go and fight this Philistine.”33 But Saul answered David, “You cannot go up against this Philistine and fight with him, for you are only a youth, while he has been a warrior from his youth.”34 Then David told Saul: “Your servant used to tend his father’s sheep, and whenever a lion or bear came to carry off a sheep from the flock,35 I would chase after it, attack it, and snatch the prey from its mouth. If it attacked me, I would seize it by the throat, strike it, and kill it.36 Your servant has killed both a lion and a bear. This uncircumcised Philistine will be as one of them, because he has insulted the armies of the living God.”37 David continued: “The same Lord who delivered me from the claws of the lion and the bear will deliver me from the hand of this Philistine.” Saul answered David, “Go! the Lord will be with you.”…49 David put his hand into the bag and took out a stone, hurled it with the sling, and struck the Philistine on the forehead. The stone embedded itself in his brow, and he fell on his face to the ground.50 Thus David triumphed over the Philistine with sling and stone; he struck the Philistine dead, and did it without a sword in his hand.
1. Lectio (Reading):
Read the passage slowly, twice. Notice words or phrases that stand out – perhaps “My lord should not lose heart,” “The same Lord who delivered me,” or the image of a simple stone against the Philistine’s might. What echoes your own experiences of facing overwhelming odds?
2. Meditatio (Meditation):
Reflect on David’s faith amid doubt. Like a young shepherd facing a seasoned warrior, we often confront “giants” – fear, loss, or uncertainty. How has God prepared you through past battles, big or small? Consider how service has honed your resilience, yet ultimate victory rests in divine power, not our own.
3. Oratio (Prayer):
Speak to God from your heart. “Lord, like David, I face giants in my life [name them]. Grant me the courage to trust Your deliverance, not my strength. Equip me with faith as my sling and stone. Amen.” Or use your own words to pour out your needs.
4. Contemplatio (Contemplation):
Sit in silence, resting in God’s presence. Let the story sink in – envision yourself stepping forward in faith. What invitation is God extending to you today? Carry this peace into your actions.
May this practice strengthen your spirit. Share your insights in the comments – we’re in this together.
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Weekly Lectio Divina: Face you Giants
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