1Sam 17:39 - "I cannot go in these (clothes to fight Goliath),” he said to Saul, “because I am not used to them.” So he took them off.
One of the fun games that kids play is what we called "Dress-Up". Boys would dress up in costumes or old men's clothes, wanting to be a fireman, police officer, doctor, etc. Girls would get all dressed up as a princess or a professional. Then the rest of the game was acting out the role of what they dressed up to be - it was imaginatory, fun, and a way to live in the make-believe land of their choice.
Dress-Up is still practiced today in our not-so-make-believe land of adulthood. As adults, we see what other people are and want to "dress" like them. We see an admired leader, and want to do the things he/she does. We see an athlete or weight loss expert, and want to follow their prescription of how to become the same in skill or physique. Dressing Up elevates to a whole new level, because we try not only to make believe we're like them, but acquire the power, possessions, or potential that they have. Unfortunately there's one problem: We're not Them!
Trying to be something we're not is the first step on the road to failure. God made us who we are for a unique & special purpose. He designed us to be exactly what He needs, and accomplish what He has purposed. Trying to be like others is more a hindrance to our progress instead of a help.
David knew he would fail if he tried to dress up as a military warrior. Instead, he chose to fight with what God had already given him, the tools of a shepherd - a sling and some stones. And by remaining himself, God was able to use him to defeat a giant.
When facing our giants, take the time to learn from others and gain wisdom from their experiences or skillsets, but don't try to be like others. Be yourself - the person God designed you to be - and let Him do the work He wants to do through you.
What giants are you facing in life? Whom are you trying to be to overcome them?
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