1 Samuel 17:16

And the Philistine drew near morning and evening, and presented himself forty days.

And the Philistine {H6430} drew near {H5066} morning {H7925} and evening {H6150}, and presented {H3320} himself forty {H705} days {H3117}.

Meanwhile, the P'lishti approached with his challenge every morning and evening for forty days.

For forty days the Philistine came forward every morning and evening to take his stand.

And the Philistine drew near morning and evening, and presented himself forty days.

Commentary

1 Samuel 17:16 provides a concise yet powerful detail about the standoff between the Philistine and Israelite armies, specifically highlighting the relentless psychological warfare employed by the Philistine champion, Goliath. This verse underscores the duration and persistence of his intimidating challenge.

Context

This verse is set during a critical period in Israelite history, where the armies of Israel, led by King Saul, were encamped against the Philistines in the Valley of Elah. The tension was palpable as the Philistine champion, Goliath of Gath, a giant of immense stature, had stepped forward to issue a singular challenge: instead of a full battle, let one champion from each side fight, and the losing side would become servants to the victor. However, no Israelite warrior dared to face him. This verse reveals the agonizing reality for the Israelites: for a full forty days, morning and evening, Goliath would present himself, hurling insults and challenges, causing immense fear and dismay among King Saul and all of Israel. This prolonged period of stalemate and terror served as a backdrop for the dramatic entrance of David, the shepherd boy, who would eventually confront the giant.

Key Themes

  • Persistent Intimidation: Goliath’s consistent and daily appearance was a calculated strategy to demoralize the Israelite army. His unwavering presence, twice a day, served as a constant, grinding reminder of their perceived weakness and his overwhelming strength, slowly eroding their morale and will to fight.
  • The Significance of "Forty Days": The number forty frequently appears in biblical narratives, often signifying a period of testing, trial, preparation, or judgment. Examples include Noah's forty days and nights of rain, Israel's forty years in the wilderness, or Jesus' forty days of temptation. In this context, it represents a profound test of Israel’s faith and courage, exposing their inability to act without divine intervention and setting the stage for a demonstration of God's power.
  • Setting the Stage for Divine Intervention: This prolonged period of human inadequacy and fear was providentially allowed. The extended delay and the Israelites' paralysis highlighted the desperate need for God's intervention and prepared for the emergence of a true leader of faith. The very length of the challenge made David's eventual victory all the more astounding, clearly illustrating that the battle belonged to the Lord.

Practical Application

The forty days of Goliath's persistent challenge offer profound insights into facing prolonged difficulties in our own lives. Just as Goliath presented himself repeatedly, we often encounter persistent problems, fears, or circumstances that do not quickly resolve. This verse reminds us that:

  • Enduring Challenges Require Enduring Faith: Our "giants" may not disappear overnight. It is during these sustained trials that our patience and faith are truly tested and refined.
  • God Often Works in the Waiting: The delay in intervention was not arbitrary. It allowed for the opportune moment for David, a man after God's own heart, to step forward. Our periods of waiting are not necessarily empty; they can be crucial preparations for God's greater plan to unfold.
  • Look Beyond the Immediate Threat: The Israelites were paralyzed by Goliath's daily presence. We are called to look beyond the immediate, intimidating obstacle and remember that with God, even the most formidable challenges can be overcome, because, as David himself would declare, the battle is the Lord's.
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Cross-References

  • Matthew 4:2

    And when he had fasted forty days and forty nights, he was afterward an hungred.

  • Luke 4:2

    Being forty days tempted of the devil. And in those days he did eat nothing: and when they were ended, he afterward hungered.
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