Defeating “Goliath”
David was just a boy. He didn’t have great strength, wisdom, good looks or authority. But he did have courage. Enough to meet a giant in hand-to-hand combat? Sure!
You probably know the rest of the Bible story. David defeated the giant, Goliath, with a carefully aimed slingshot, precipitating the swift demise of the great Philistine army. His courageous act emboldened the rest of the Israelites, who routed their fleeing adversaries. Soon afterward, David was anointed as King over all of Israel.
True leadership requires courage.
Recently, our Year Five students and staff have been considering who to select in formal leadership roles for 2026. One quality we prize is having the courage to do what is right and to stand up for others. For some students. simply nominating themselves for a position has been a courageous step. Many have presented speeches to the whole grade about what they think a leader is like. That has also taken courage.
During last week’s Year Five camp, I was privileged to see courageous leadership in action. As our camp leader led us out to the giant swing (aptly nicknamed “Goliath”), 27 metres above the ground, I heard many children talking about their fear. They weren’t going to go on this scary ride.
But one boy raised his hand and volunteered to go first - all the way to the top. After we saw his bravery (and noted that he survived - and loved it), others were keen to have a go. In the end, almost the entire group went to the summit. They couldn’t stop talking about it! If it wasn’t for the courageous leadership of one boy, many might have missed out on the thrill of the giant swing.
Our children need courageous leaders in their lives. As teachers, parents, and fellow students, we need to stand up for what is right and show the way. But where can we find the courage to do so?
Consider David’s words to King Saul, who questioned his ability to defeat Goliath:
The Lord who rescued me from the paw of the lion and the paw of the bear will rescue me from the hand of this Philistine.
- 1 Samuel 17:37a
David could have courage, because he knew God. He trusted in the One with unlimited power, who had never once failed to rescue him from danger.
Do you know this all-powerful and saving God? Those who put their trust in Him may find that they have all the courage they need, for life and for leadership.
