Is there not a cause?

One of the most loved narratives in the Bible is David and Goliath.  A truly inspirational piece of history about the physical underdog proving to be a spiritual giant.  One of the neglected parts of this section of Scripture is the conflicted interaction between David and his brothers. When David began to make an inquiry as to why nobody stood up to Goliath, David’s brother became defensive.  To which David replies,

And David said, What have I now done? Is there not a cause? (1 Samuel 17:29)

Several translations take the phrase, “Is there not a cause” into, “I just asked a question.”  Either way, David is implying that there are grounds for questioning their inactivity.  Is there not a cause to question our inactivity as believer’s today?  What are some of the causes that were important to David and us?

God’s glory

David was concerned that Israel and the Philistines would be reminded of how Yahweh, the God of Israel is to be feared and honored.  Verse 47 states this as David’s purpose.  God certainly does not need us to do anything to “help Him” but it is a most worthy cause to demonstrate our faith in God for His Name’s sake.  We should be concerned about bringing glory to God with every thought, word, and deed.

Families

Israel’s army was the only thing standing between the Philistines and the Israelite cities.  Defeat here would also signal the demise of the Israelites families and homes.  Another great cause worth fighting the evil in our world is for the sake of our families and friends.  We are too concerned about pleasuring self and what makes us happy.  We need to focus about those around and look after them.

Way of Life

Goliath’s challenge was that loser would have to identify as the servant of the other people.  If Israel lost the challenge, it would prompt a change a lifestyle.  Our way of living is worth protecting.  There is nothing wrong with living right and we must contend for its validity in our current culture.