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The idea of being attacked by a larger, stronger person worries both men and women.  Many - especially women - fear that fighting back will only make things worse. 

Forget for the moment that studies show that 80% of rapists will give up if they meet with resistance. 

What can anyone do against a physically overpowering foe?

If the Biblically literate will forgive me my inevitable errors, I suggest that the story of David and Goliath has some lessons here.

Goliath was huge, armed, armored, skilled, experienced, and looking for a fight.  David was young, small, inexperienced in combat, wore no armor, and was "armed" with a staff and a sling.  Nevertheless, David had many attributes that he brought to to the match, and they proved to be more important than Goliath's advantages.

Of course, first and foremost David had his faith.  Whatever your personal beliefs, it is important to understand that faith gave David a clear mind.  He saw the situation for what it was and did not panic.  Emotional control, as usual, is the first thing to bring with you.

Because he had a clear mind, David did not fall into the trap of playing Goliath's game.  He went into battle with the tools he knew and arranged the fight so it was on his terms.  He could reach farther with his sling than Goliath could with his spear or sword.  Unlike most people in similar situations, David forced his opponent into battle on his terms.

In a modern confrontation, using the environment is just as important.  Can you keep out of range or put obstacles between you and the aggressor? 

If he extends an arm to touch your body, can you attack that arm?

Until part 2, I urge you to go over the entries on Killer Instinct, and think about how you can use these principles in a confrontation with a larger, apparently stronger opponent.
10/12/2009 02:13:01 am

If you recall, David was given the king's personal armor and weapons. David's real genius was rejecting the advice of "the experts." Not because "the experts" were wrong. Just wrong for David. Like the shiny armor and swords, high kicks and putting your hand through 15 blocks of cement might look really cool, but in a practical application wouldn't be useful to the average Joe.

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Jim
10/12/2009 06:55:23 am

Just so Gov'ner!

The armor that was right for King Saul was a hindrance for David.

That, too, is an important lesson!

Thanks!

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Amanda
10/12/2009 10:06:19 am

I like your analogy of the David and Goliath story. There are indeed practical applications beyond that of faith although I believe that Faith was David's most powerful weopon. You are right, staying calm and rational is the first and most important step in many things in life. And I have always liked what you have taught about using the gifts that you have as an individual, use the strengths that you have, and whatever you may have on you or near you as a means to fend off an attacker. David did just that, his sling and a few stones was all he took. He didn't need more, because he knew his aim would be true, he was well versed with his weapon, and God was with him.

And I like what the Governor said as well, the armor he was offered was way too big, and would have only hindered him, it would have made him vulnerable, not protect him. He was much better off rejecting to use it. It's better to use what we have and what we know we can do, and above all, keep your wits about you.

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