God vs Goliath: The Battle Before the Battle ਨਮੂਨਾ

Not every voice that speaks to you is for you.

Whenever you step out in obedience, resistance will rise—sometimes from those closest to you. David’s brother Eliab accused him of pride, but the real issue was inside Eliab. He felt overlooked, insecure, and frustrated that God had chosen another.

What if the Eliab in my life is someone I love—how do I set boundaries without bitterness?

There will always be Eliabs—mentors, leaders, or loved ones whose words cut deep. But their pain doesn’t get to define your purpose. You can love people and still refuse to surrender your confidence. Choose whose words lead your life—the assumptions of man or the affirmation of God.

You’re talking about not fighting the wrong battles — that raises real relational tension.
There will always be Eliabs in your life. People that you love and respect. Older brothers in a spiritual sense, industry leaders, people you've looked up to for a long time, who inevitably will let you down. Eliab wasn't against David so much as he was struggling within himself. Why wasn't he chosen? What caused God to pass over him? Why does the one who sacrificed the least for the family get the greatest blessing? So when he speaks to David, he is really speaking to himself- the struggle is within him. Of course, it doesn't feel that way to David. He loves Eliab and looks up to him. The words hurt because the emotions are real, but David has to choose now who will lead his life. Will it be the Words of God or the words of his brother? One claims to know him, the other actually does. David has to set the boundaries within his own mind and heart as to what words he will receive and live by.

Reflection: Who have you allowed to speak louder than God in this season?

Prayer: Father, help me respond with grace, not resentment. Teach me to honor others while standing firm in Your truth. Amen.