It's not easy being a Christian, and there are many things that hinder believers from becoming the man or woman that God truly wants them to be.
Pastor Rick Warren of Saddleback Church hs written on his website that a person of faith who has a great dream for his life should emulate David, who defeated a giant in the name of God.
But how can they emulate David? Warren said the first step is to remember how God helped them in the past. "When you remember the ways that God has helped you in the past, it gives you confidence for the future," he explained.
Next, they should use the tools that God has provided them with. David himself used the strengths God gave him. Instead of being fitted in heavy armor, he decided to face Goliath without any protection and picked up five smooth stones and a shepherd's bag.
"Don't wait for something you don't have - such as money, education, or connections. Use the tools God has already given you to face your giants with confidence," said Warren.
In life, there will always be "dreambusters," said Warren. It's easy to sink in despair and believe in the negativity, but Warren said that Christians need to encourage themselves in the Lord.
"It's not just a positive mental attitude. There is a bedrock trust in God's grace, provision, security, and power," he said.
Lastly, they should expect that God would help them for His glory. Warren said it does not matter where people come from or what their mental capabilities are. With God on their side, they can achieve amazing feats.
"God will use anybody who will trust Him and expect to be used by Him — not because of who you are, but for His glory," he said.
Warren understands that people will deal with many setbacks in their lives. But even though they pray to God for help, they shouldn't expect a sudden miracle. What God will do instead is help His children learn from their mistakes and toughen them up to become better individuals.
"It's kind of like peeling an onion; He takes it off one layer at a time. But here's the hope. God is with you and He is for you. When you ask God for help, and trust Him to provide, you will experience the peace of His wisdom and blessing," he said.
