David didn’t think one rock would do. He knew Goliath had four behemoth relatives. “Ishbi-benob was a descendant of the giants; his bronze spearhead weighed more than seven pounds” (2 Sam. 21:16 NLT). Saph made the list, described as “another descendant of the giants” (v. 18 NLT). Then there was “the brother of Goliath of Gath. The handle of his spear was as thick as a weaver’s beam!” (v. 19 NLT). These three seem harmless compared to King Kong.

There was a giant there [Gath] with six fingers on his hands and six toes on his feet—twenty-four fingers and toes! He was another of those descended from Rapha.…

These four were descended from Rapha in Gath. (vv. 20, 22 MSG)

Why did David quarry a quintet of stones? Could it be because Goliath had four relatives the size of Tyrannosaurus rex? For all David knew, they’d come running over the hill to defend their kin. David was ready to empty the chamber if that’s what it took.

Imitate him. Never give up. One prayer might not be enough. One apology might not do it. One day or month of resolve might not suffice. You may get knocked down a time or two … but don’t quit. Keep loading the rocks. Keep swinging the sling.

David took five stones. He made five decisions. Do likewise. Past. Prayer. Priority. Passion. And persistence.

Next time Goliath wakes you up, reach for a stone. Odds are, he’ll be out of the room before you can load your sling.

Max Lucado, Facing Your Giants (Nashville: W Pub. Group, 2006), 3–4.

We have just released a new Bible study on the life of David using Max Lucado’s book, Facing Your Giants as a guide.

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