David: God's own heart Chapter 6 King Saul - The valley of giants

 

While King Saul was preparing to battle the superior Philistine army, few knew that Jonathan with his armor bearer, was positioned elsewhere—ready to launch a bold & brutal surprise attack. But there's something deeper worth noting here. The author of the biblical account offers a remarkably precise description of the ensuing slaughter: it occurred within an area about half an acre in size—approximately what a yoke of oxen could plow.

Research indicates this area to be around 100 by 200 feet. Within this space, more than twenty Philistines were killed. The intensity and scale of the fight—executed by just two men, a King's son & his armor bearer—clearly point to a battle not fought by human might, but by divine intervention.Consider also the likely physical stature of the Philistines: possibly giants, as inferred from the casualty count in such a compact area.Their size and strength highlight just how formidable this feat truly was.Yet Jonathan and his companion carried no sword of their own making—only the confidence that God would deliver them. They even asked for a sign from God, and it was granted.

Particularly inspiring is the faith of Jonathan’s armor bearer, who declared, “Do all that is in your heart… for the Lord is with you,” affirming that God can save by many or by few.Such unwavering faith might seem almost too good to be true.Yet Jonathan did not dismiss his companion’s words; instead, he embraced them, & together they moved forward in faith,asking God for a confirming sign.

In this confrontation with the Philistines,nothing was left to chance.This was no military exercise or simulation.Either God would fight for them, or they would perish.

Meanwhile, Saul struggled to organize his troops, unaware that his son had already turned the tide by crippling the enemy's garrison. This is a clear example of winning through the few and saving the many—including his own father, King Saul.However, every battle brings physical toll.The body, being flesh and blood, demands sustenance. Due to a miscommunication,Jonathan ate honey during the battle, unaware of Saul’s command for a fast. This poorly timed order not only failed its purpose but made it worst.