David and Goliath

I LOVE Seminary. 

Yesterday we talked about 1 Samuel 17, the story of David and Goliath. Brother Butler asked us to read a few verses and then find a phrase that stood out to us. We were also supposed to turn the story into an allegory of our own lives.

Here's what I came up with:

David ---> ME

Goliath ---> my depression, negative feelings, and low self esteem

Philistines ---> people who make me feel insecure/bullies

Smooth stones ---> debate, school, friends, family, service

Sling shot ---> my Savior Jesus Christ

In 2 Nephi 32:9, it says:

But behold, I say unto you that ye must pray always, and not faint; that ye must not perform any thing unto the Lord save in the first place ye shall pray unto the Father in the name of Christ, that he will consecrate thy performance unto thee, that thy performance may be for the welfare of thy soul.

When I am involved with things like debate or school work, I need to do everything in Christ's name. It's important to be constantly remembering Him and having a prayer in my heart.  Whenever I'm being torn down by depression or harmful thoughts, or whenever a bully is making me feel less than I am, I can use my smooth stones as weapons. My five smooth stones are things that make me happy. As long as everything I do is through the Savior, as long as I'm holding onto my testimony, then I will have perfect aim every time when taking down adversity.

You are David. Who or what is your Goliath? Who are the Philistines that try and discourage you? What are the five stones you use to fight against your trials? Is Christ your slingshot?

Oh, and if you're wondering, the power phrase that I chose is "the battle is the Lord's" from 1 Samuel 17:47. It's my responsibility to do my best in life. However, it's the expectation that I'll make mistake. The battle for my salvation and everlasting happiness is truly the Lord's, and I am eternally grateful for that.