Underdogs?
by Pat McIntosh

One of the great “underdog” stories in sports was that of the 1980 U.S. Olympic hockey team. The Russians and the Czechs were thought to be unbeatable (the Russians had enjoyed a long unbeaten string). The U.S. team was comprised of a bunch of college players from the Northeast. Nobody was giving them much of a chance against the veteran team from Russia. As a matter of fact, they played a game before the Olympics and the Russians beat the U.S. 10-1. However, in the Olympics, the U.S. team beat the Russians and then went on to win the gold medal. This true story was the basis of the movie “Miracle.”

The Bible contains a similar “underdog” story in the account of David and Goliath. Goliath was a giant over nine feet tall. David was a “punk kid” who tended sheep. The entire Israelite army, led by King Saul, was paralyzed in fear as Goliath taunted them relentlessly. However, as we know so well, David was able, with God’s help, to take the giant down with a sling and a stone. This account stands as a great example of faith and the manifestation of the truth that, with God’s help, people can overcome great odds.

What can we learn today? Though the Lord’s church is in the vast minority in the world today, great things can be accomplished. No, it will not be by our power. It will not be accomplished by numbers. If we are to impact the world, it will be through our use of God’s power, the gospel. We may appear to be “underdogs” but we can, either collectively or individually, be victorious in our endeavors.

A.M. Sermon – “David and Goliath”
Introduction – 1 Sam. 17:1-3;
1. David fought for the Lord – 1 Sam. 17:32; Jude 3; 1 Tim. 6:12; 2 Tim. 4:7-8; Heb. 11:32-40
2. David trusted in God – James 1:2-4, 12; Psa. 20:6-9; 7:10
3. David was prepared – 1 Sam. 17:40; Eph. 6:13-17; 2 Tim. 2:15; 1 Tim. 4:12-13

P.M. Sermon – The Benefits of Life’s Adversities (Hab. 1:12-14)