RUSSELL SANDERS
10-2-2025
WHO IS YOUR ELIAB?

In chapter 17 of 1 Samuel, Israel’s army is halted in fear of the Philistine army and its champion, Goliath, the giant warrior. A young shepherd boy named David had brought provisions for his six older soldier brothers who were frozen with fear of the giant soldier. When David questioned their fear, his oldest brother Eliab rebuked him, claiming that David only wished to see the thrill of a great battle. He incited the crowd to chide David for his foolish arrogance. They all sided with Eliab.

David was nonplussed by the crowd. He trusted the Lord and had no fear. God delivered Goliath’s head to David. Eliab’s ridicule was answered by God in defeat of Goliath and the Philistine army. David was hailed as Israel’s deliverer from tens of thousands of their enemy.

We, like David, can trust God to deliver us from the Goliaths in our lives in such a manner that God alone will get the praise and glory for the deliverance. It is not about “us”, but only about “Him.”

The “Eliabs” of our life cause us to reassess our dependance on God alone for the severe challenges of life. When you encounter your “Eliab,” know that God allows the challenge so as to strengthen your faith and your character. Keep your focus and trust on the Lord and not on the problem and you will grow from the experience.

Remember, God allows “Eliabs” to strengthen our faith and our trust upon Him.