5 Smooth Stones

You may or may not know, but when David fought Goliath, he collected 5 smooth stones from a river before doing so (recall his weapon of choice was a sling) (1 Sam 17:40). There have been many theories hatched about why David took 5 stones? Was it an act of humility (mixed with stupidity) that he might need 5 attempts to drop the giant? Or was it rather youthful exuberance in that the other 4 stones were intended for Goliath's brothers? Only David knows. What I know however, is that I have had the good fortune (grace!) of having collected a couple 'smooth stones' myself over the years... One's that too have found their mark.

The 1st would surely be my personal adoption of specific spiritual disciplines that have profoundly impacted upon my ability to take on and down some giants in my life. I've included my top 3 disciplines here below;

1. Quiet times spent in the presence of God - including reading, praying and reflecting
2. Taking a Friday Sabbath rest - resting in the things (promises and performance) of God 
3. Keeping a weekly prayer list and a monthly testimonies list

The 2nd smooth stone must be my discipleship and fellowship with other men (brothers). That is the intentional calling and gathering of men in small groups with the purpose of building one another up in the faith on a weekly basis.

The 3rd smooth stone is undoubtedly my understanding and application of the spiritual gifts God has endowed me with. These include (for now);

1. Intercession (Prayer)
2. Leadership 
3. Faith

The 4th stone, is what I would like to talk more about here... and that is the understanding of, and relating to myself, as a spiritual man. If you or I want to know how something is intended to work, and therefore how it works best, we must 1st understand how that thing is made. Ferrari's are made for speed and the track, and Jeeps are made for durability and off-road. Mix that up, and you and your car will be very sorry!

As humans, we were made for God, and can only understand the things of God, through our spirits. Accordingly, we are 1st and foremost spiritual beings, created in the image of God, for relationship with God. Approach life with this in mind, and you will live the life God intended you to. Reject this truth, and you will live your life in opposition to God, and your design.

So, without further delay, here's a summary presentation and revelation that rocked my world, and hopefully yours too!