In the familiar story of David and Goliath the words, "David hasted, and ran toward the army to meet the Philistine," show with what unhesitating assurance David undertook the deliverance of the armies of Israel. Was it not assurance gained from previous demonstration, when as a shepherd he found strength to defend his flock from attack? In his own words: "The Lord that delivered me out of the paw of the lion, and out of the paw of the bear, he will deliver me out of the hand of this Philistine." His faith in divine support had been established.
The later challenge involved the fears of an entire army, but so confident was David from the first intimation of threat that he was able at once to say, "Let no man's heart fail because of him." Trustworthiness and courage had served him well in the earlier defense of life and innocence. These qualities had evidently been nurtured and had ripened into such reliance on the living God as enabled him unhesitatingly to accept this far more formidable challenge.
Here are pointed lessons for one who would overcome fear, lessons which are explained and amplified in the study of Christian Science, for release from fear is its priceless offer to all. The allness of God, good, and consequent unreality of evil is the basis from which our confidence stems. Comforting it is to turn to God in time of trouble, and the study of Christian Science so clarifies our understanding of the ever-present power of divine Love that our courage and faith constantly increase. Again and again do we prove that such trust is rewarded with release. Even the simplest proof of God's ever-available power to hold His child intact opens new vistas to the fearful. Right there has he glimpsed dominion, and found the heartening assurance that fear can be progressively dispelled. "Thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things," indicates our path toward this new freedom, and prayer is the open gate.
