Preparation for Destiny

God has a purpose and destiny for all of His creation. The problem is can we endure and be patient enough to withstand His testings, which will ensure that we’re ready at the appointed time?

David the shepherd boy knew only that he was visiting his brothers with some food, at his father Jesse’s request. But God had a greater purpose in store for this ‘one-off’ visit to deliver his brothers’ lunch! Out came Goliath hurling his insults at the Most High God and Israel’s armies – just in time to stir David’s righteous indignation. “Who is this uncircumcised Philistine that he should defy the armies of the living God?” cried David.

David overcame the first hurdle of his eldest brother’s jealousy, but then King Saul dressed David in his own armour. David wasn’t used to fighting in someone else’s armour. Off it came. While looking after his father’s sheep David had killed both a lion and a bear. He was ready to meet Goliath!!

Then with staff and sling in hand he chose five smooth stones from the stream and put them in his shepherd’s bag. Now these stones must have lain there from time immemorial at the mercy of rushing waters, the scorching heat of the sun and bitter cold night air. But God their maker had a purpose even for these non-descript stones! Suddenly the day was upon them when they would no longer be trodden underfoot or at the mercy of wind or weather. They were now in the darkness of David’s bag.

What next? David’s searching fingers selected just the right one as he ran towards Israel’s enemy and released it. If that little stone could talk would it have been able to contain its excitement at being chosen? I wonder what it thought at seeing Goliath’s forehead coming towards it at an uncomfortably high speed? In a moment of time its destiny was fulfilled! Israel’s enemy lay face down on the ground and David finished the job.

Maybe you’ve felt down-trodden for many a year…overlooked…in the dark…almost forgotten. Don’t underestimate God’s training school and time-schedule. God hasn’t forgotten you. In God’s agenda nothing is by accident. Be patient. Your time will come and God’s purposes will be fulfilled in your life!

Prayer: Dear Lord, Please help me to understand the delays and testings You allow in my life that I may fully enter into the destiny You have for me at the appointed time. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.