Description
How can God help you, like David, to overcome seemingly impossible odds? The David and Goliath story offers us spiritual guidance on how to overcome obstacles. Rather than offering "self-help," the story offers "God-help," rooted in its history as a story told by people of faith to people of faith. The ancient story of David and Goliath speaks to modern people facing modern problems, offering spiritual guidance and reassurance that God is with us always, even and especially when we face and slay our giants.
The Rev. John Ohmer, rector of The Falls Church Episcopal in Virginia, has twenty years of experience as an ordained minister and working pastor. Prior to entering Virginia Theological Seminary in 1994, he worked on Capitol Hill, as well as in his home state of Indiana, as a press secretary and speechwriter.
Also available on Amazon Kindle, Barnes & Noble Nook, and iTunes.
Editorial Reviews
This is a book that I find myself thinking about, and reaching for to re-read parts of it, days after I finished it. I am sure that will continue, and I've marked some sections with tabs. It will be close to my desk, not added to my bookcase. The book isn't preachy. It is like having a conversation with a good friend. I found myself thinking "Oh yeah, I've done that..." at several points where our "Goliaths" - counterproductive things that we do - are mentioned, and thinking that the actions suggested to "slay" those Goliaths are practical, and doable. I guess the best comment I can make is that I emailed nine good friends to recommend the book after I finished it. Its been a long time since I've done that! -Chuck C, Amazon Review
This is a LEADERSHIP book that exceeded expectations. Be careful, this book is so much more than a rehash of your favorite childhood Bible story. Seeking frameworks to improve courage and decisiveness? Seeking to help yourself or others with feelings of inadequacy or self-doubt? Looking for a personalized strategy for "picking your passion?" Interested in assessing your strengths, weaknesses, and facing fear and/or addiction? John Ohmer thoughtfully evaluates the qualities that bring better understanding and belief in your mission. He inspires you to be a better leader, a better follower, and improve daily activities and career fulfillment now. -Amazon Review
I love this book! We used it for a women's book group/Bible study at our church, and the participants found the book chock full of wisdom, new teaching, and encouragement. The text is easy to read and offers practical counsel about ways that we can be more faithful, trusting people. The author reads the David and Goliath story with fresh eyes and offers new insights that are helpful for anyone facing a Goliath.
-M. Davila
Making God and the Bible feel "real" and applicable is not easy, but John Ohmer delivers in this "how-to" book -- HOW TO look at the David and Goliath story as a HOW TO walk through life with God and rely on His help in dealing with struggles that seem impossible. "Bible study" can seem intimidating, but this book seems more like an invitation to ponder God's role in my life, and embrace His presence as a promise. I could say it's an "easy read" because it does not tangle me in religious rhetoric, but it is so thought provoking it seems a disservice to call it "easy." I look forward to reading it again just to reconsider its ideas.
-Jennifer Lassiter
John does a masterful job of walking you through one of the most iconic stories of The Bible. His commentary while you read allows for you to focus on the important parts of the story and God's message throughout. In times when your whole world can seem like it is going 1,000 miles an hour, this book gives a step by step process to tackle the most important things with God's help. Any major problem in your life can be defeated with the teachings of John Ohmer and God. I greatly enjoyed reading this book and hope it spreads to many. -A. Reimers
I just finished reading John's book. For the fortunate members of The Falls Church Episcopal, we are blessed with his ability to articulate clearly and give us new perspectives every week. This is a must read. It is concise and pithy and offers valuable insight on confronting the Goliaths in our life. For example, "Don't Tell God How Big Your problems Are. Tell Your Problems How Big Your God Is." John masterfully weaves in his personal struggles in accepting the call to become the pastor at The Falls Church Episcopal and the Goliaths he faced. -Amazon Review
I found Slaying Your Goliaths richly rewarding, intellectually and spiritually. This book is a gem that beautifully blends biblical commentary, theology, spiritual direction, the recent history of the author's congregation, and an insightful reflective chronicle of some of the ways the author lives out and lives into his work, ministry, and pilgrimage as priest, pastor, and church administrator. -Alfred Moss
I used this book for a "Silent Retreat" this past weekend. It was perfect for examining where I am in life both spiritually and in other ways. The questions after each section supported that self-reflection and helped to identify ways to face challenges and overcome them. -Amazon Review
Really helps reframe my problems. I am still working on selecting my stones, but at least I have reframed things! Wonderfully written.
-Amazon Review