Be Yourself

1 Samuel 17:45 – “Thou comest to me with a sword, and with a spear, and with a shield: but I come to thee in the name of the LORD of hosts….”

A well-known professor of Homiletics (the art of preaching) gave the following advice to his students whenever they tried to imitate some great minister’s style in the pulpit: “Be yourself! Use the talents God has given you and speak sincerely as He lays the message upon your heart.” If this wise teacher could have counseled David before he went to battle with Goliath, he undoubtedly would have said to the youth, “Young man, be yourself! You are not a trained soldier and you shouldn’t try to act like one. Go with your faith in God, taking only the equipment you have used so effectively while guarding your father’s sheep.”

The Lord had not prepared David for fighting with the usual weapons of warfare. That is why he felt so uncomfortable with the armor and sword which the king provided. When he met Goliath, he had only the staff and sling which were so familiar to him; but putting his confidence in God, he defeated the blasphemous giant.

Being one’s self is a lesson which many believers must learn. By envying others and trying to imitate them, they make themselves miserable and bring about failure. A young man who is gifted musically and works well with children kept aspiring to be a profound Bible teacher. His efforts, however, met with one frustration after another. Finally, he decided to do his best with the talents God had given him. Now he is both happy and successful.

Christian friend, don’t make the mistake David made when he tried to wear the armor of Saul. The other person’s helmet may not fit you. Be yourself!