Views from the Valley of Elah

Yesterday we had the opportunity to show some visitors from England a couple of sites in Israel and to share with them a bit more about our work.

One of the places we went was the Valley of Elah.  I’m sure you are all familiar with the account of David and Goliath in I Samuel 17.  We talked about how if we live by sight, our battles will be overwhelming.  If we look to the L-rd and rely upon His strength, nothing will be too difficult.  We just need to make sure that we are in His will and seeking His plans and purposes for our lives.

Goliath was a huge man.  David was not.  He was a young shepherd.  No one would believe that David would be able to defeat Goliath.  And yet, with G-d’s strength, he did just that.

It also important to see the exchange between David and his brothers.  David came to ask what was going to be done about Goliath.  None of the men would step up to the plate to deal with him.  David’s eldest brother, Eliav, got angry.  Why was that?  Because of conviction.  He knew they were not being bold and taking action.  Sometimes when we are following G-d’s will, and stepping up to fill a need, we will encounter pushback.  Someone may be convicted that she/he should do that and is angry that someone else has stepped forward.

Unfortunately, people are not always encouraging.  However, we must pray, read G-d’s Word, and listen to what He would have us to do.