Pretty or Practical… 1 Samuel 17:40  And he took his staff in his hand, and chose him five smooth stones out of the brook, and put them in a shepherd’s bag which he had, even in a scrip; and his sling was in his hand: and he drew near to the Philistine.  This text is speaking of David, just before slaying Goliath.  Saul offered David his Armour to go and fight the giant.  No doubt Sauls Armour would have been much more impressive to look at.  That’s where some people make a huge mistake.  Only trying to impress the onlookers.  Not David.  The job at hand was much too important to be concerned with what looked good, he needed what he knew would work!  The shepherd had experience with the sling!  He knew it would get the job done.
Are we living out our Christianity so as to just impress others, or are we engaging in the battle with what we know works?  Have we battle tested the whole Armour of God?  Do we have confidence that God’s Word is true and trustworthy? Do we face the enemy in our own strength or in the power of our Lord’s might?
Have we prayed and sought God’s face before engaging the enemy?  David knew his equipment was practical.  Something to use, not just admire.  Goliath mocked David as he approached him.  When we trust the Lord,  we may be mocked as well.  I’ll leave you with this… when it was all said and done, who was the Victor?
The man with five smooth stones and a sling! Glory! Amen.  Pastor