How many times have you heard or read the story of David and Goliath? Enough to have the CliffsNotes memorized? The giant threatens the land and stymies the army until the underdog shepherd boy shows up and decides, “You guys are making this way too complicated. Watch this.”

Granted that's a very loose interpretation, but we all know the story. Inspiring, incredible, memorable. So many lessons to take from his courage, obedience and how we can be used by God. 

When I heard it again recently a new thought about the old story surprised me. What are the odds this guy would have been out there just watching sheep? While it was a pretty common occupation and all, when you think about the kind of person it took to step up like that – he had to be pretty remarkable.

Obviously, the victory came from God working through him, but he had to be pretty good raw material. Look at what he went on to achieve!  So what are the odds that someone with that kind of courage and those characteristics had remained content to stay put and shepherd until then, rather than seeking bigger challenges? 

To me that’s an equally amazing part of the story. Obedience when we are called to action takes courage. Listening to the call on our lives when it is to stay, rest or wait takes courage too when we don’t understand how we are being perfectly positioned for the work God has yet to call us to. 

"Yet the Lord longs to be gracious to you; therefore he will rise up to show you compassion. Blessed are all who wait for him!" – Isaiah 30:18

Let us abide in the Lord, trust in his plan, and listen for his voice so we’re right where we’re supposed to be. 

Written by Marisa Phillips, senior director of Buckner Family Pathways®.