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“Those who kill giants have stories to tell. They have seen God at work. They know what God can do. They are utterly convinced that God is able. And for this reason they are dangerous.” Mark Crumpler
Sharing the best of our reading this week: Words about the power of story from Mark Crumpler at Peachtree Presbyterian Church, Atlanta, GA
But David stepped into the valley that day armed with something that no one there could see, certainly not Goliath and not even Saul. It was not weapon that could be held in the hand or placed on the head or draped over the body.
Perhaps David’s most formidable weapons that day were stories and memories: stories and memories of God’s help, God’s deliverance, God’s presence in trouble, God’s power in the face of threat. David had lived this. David had seen this. And it made him confident. These stories had made a giant killer of a shepherd boy.
This is no mere belief in God. When it’s time to face a giant it simply will not do to say “I believe in God.” Killing giants requires more than the kind of agreeable mental assent we often label as ‘belief.’ Those who kill giants have stories to tell. They have seen God at work. They know what God can do. They are utterly convinced that God is able. And for this reason they are dangerous.
So what stories do you tell? When and how have you seen God unmistakably at work in your life? When have you known his presence as close to you as your own breath? When have you sensed his peace taking up residence deep in your chest? Be specific – and remember. Tell yourself and others this story. Rehearse it. It will make you dangerous today against whatever you face.
“I remember the days of old; I meditate on all that you have done” (Psalm 143:3-5).
Mark Crumpler from his series: Alive With God
This is excellent, and a timely word for me this week–thanks so much, Sisters!! Have a blessed day.
The problem with stories is that with time and trouble, the enemy tries to weaken their power or change their ending. We need to write things down so that we have a witness of what God has done to remind others, but moslty our weak selves. That has been a fresh lesson.
Enjoyed the post!
God Bless You!
Dei
I like to tell my stories, but I don’t think my person tells hers often enough. She has some powerful stories of God at work in her life.
Really trusting God often looks like crazy to everyone else. Or dangerous.
David’s stories and memories–I had not thought of this part of LittleDavid’s armour in getting ready to face Goliath before! I am not surprise these words came out of Peachtree Presyterian! I raised my children in Macon,GA; and our Episcopal parish, St. Francis, there was known to take groups to participate in interdominational activities at that church. My son, daughter-in-law, granddaughter and grandson are all quite active at Central Prebyterian Church, right across from the Georgia State Capitol Building. Stories and memories are what I strive to convey through poetry and dream images-as-illustrations. I support you two in your ministry through writing and poetry, as well.
LOVE that beginning quote! really stirs things up inside of me