Day 2: Chosen when Humble
of The Heart of God: Through David’s Eyes
Below is Day Two of the study, but there is an introduction to check out which gives context and sets the tone, and previous weeks to look at below. If you would like the full content all in one place, this book is now available for purchase on Amazon. Week 1 - He Longs for Us to Know Who We Are
Day 1: We Are His People
Day 2: Chosen when Humble
The Shepherd boy
God’s People, including the people of Israel and all of those who have followed God and Jesus, have something in common: not one of them earned being among God’s people. None of the people designated as God’s People were given this title due to an accomplishment. Those who belong to God are His because they chose to accept their invitation to be a part of what God is doing in our world. David is no exception.
When David enters the scene, he plays a supporting role in the story of the prophet Samuel. Samuel was God’s gift to a barren mother, and, throughout his life, was dedicated to the Lord. Samuel spent years trying to guide Saul, the reigning king of Israel, to God; however, Saul was not following God. As a result of his rejecting God, God rejects him as king over Israel. In response to God’s decision, Samuel is in a season of lament and mourning.
“The Lord said to Samuel, “How long will you mourn for Saul, since I have rejected him as king over Israel? Fill your horn with oil and be on your way; I am sending you to Jesse of Bethlehem. I have chosen one of his sons to be king.”But Samuel said, “How can I go? If Saul hears about it, he will kill me.”The Lord said, “Take a heifer with you and say, ‘I have come to sacrifice to the Lord.’ Invite Jesse to the sacrifice, and I will show you what to do. You are to anoint for me the one I indicate.” (1 Samuel 16:1-3)
Samuel searches among Jesse’s impressive, strong sons and had confidence that he would find the next leader among them. While these appeared like leaders, God clarified what He was looking for.
But the Lord said to Samuel, “Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The Lord does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.” (1 Samuel 16:7)
We quickly learn that the next king God desires to lead his people is not what people would normally appoint. God states Samuel should not focus on the physical appearance of the people to evaluate their ability to lead. God chooses the leader of His People in a unique way. He considers the heart and intentions; in fact, He was looking for a specific heart posture. Because God’s selection for king is outside the realm of human understanding, Samuel has a hard time deciphering whom God chose.
Samuel continues to look through Jesse’s sons to no avail. Eventually, he runs out of boys to consider, and realizes he hasn’t found a winner. Finally, Samuel asks Jesse if he has any other sons, and Jesse tells him that his youngest son is tending their flock of sheep in a nearby field. Samuel would not even sit down and make himself comfortable until the youngest son of Jesse is brought to him. The shepherd boy, David, was “glowing with health” and has a handsome appearance but doesn’t seem to appear the way Samuel expects.
Then the Lord said, “Rise and anoint him; this is the one.”So Samuel took the horn of oil and anointed him in the presence of his brothers, and from that day on the Spirit of the Lord came powerfully upon David. Samuel then went to Ramah. (1 Samuel 16:12b-13)
What amazes me about this passage is the way David is introduced. David, one of the most prominent kings of Israel, is, in the account of His life, seemingly an afterthought. Due to him being the youngest and least important son, he is not even considered valuable enough to be brought before Samuel. He was sent to tend the sheep so the rest of his family could meet with Samuel. He was not even considered as an option until Samuel asks if there were any other sons.
Ultimately, the story of David’s life wasn’t even the main focus of the book. The casual way David is brought into the story shows us his humble beginnings. He was not shiny, athletic, or treated as a potential king as he grew up. David was a young shepherd boy who was sought after by God because of his heart.
When you think of David, what part of his life is the first to come to mind?
What qualities do you look for when evaluating if someone should become a leader?
David enters the story as one who is chosen by God. What specific qualities does David have that make him qualified to be the next anointed king of Israel?
If you were selected to be the president of the United States today, would you feel qualified? Why or why not?
What does choosing a shepherd boy to become a king say about what God values?
In what ways do you feel chosen by God? Describe the experience and the impact of this on your relationship with Him.
Reflection Activity
May God remind you of the unique way He loves you, the intentional, specific way He created you, and the many ways you delight Him. Spend time listening to His gentle voice and consider writing down anything that comes to mind.
Listening to God can be tricky business, especially if we forget how awkward it can be. Consider setting a timer for 2-3 minutes and give it a go. At times, this can be difficult, and, even after a couple minutes, it is normal if you are not sure what to write down. If this is the case, read Psalm 139 and write down 2-3 phrases that stick out to you. This is another way to listen to God and can bring great encouragement when we feel unsure about which voice inside us is God’s.
An excerpt of The Heart of God: Through David’s Eyes by Jill Ng