Chosen by God
Passage: 1 Samuel 16:1-13
Saul has been rejected as king. Samuel is sent to Bethlehem.
Overview
God chose the youngest son, a shepherd, because the LORD looks on the heart. Samuel anointed David and the Spirit came upon him.
Going deeper
The theme of God choosing the unlikely runs through Scripture. Bethlehem later becomes the birthplace of the Son of David (Micah 5:2; Luke 2:4).
Key verses (KJV)
- 1 Samuel 16:7 The LORD looketh on the heart.
- 1 Samuel 16:13 The Spirit of the LORD came upon David.
From the commentaries
1Sa 16:11-14. He Anoints David. 11. There remaineth yet the youngest, and, behold, he keepeth the sheep—Jesse having evidently no idea of David's wisdom and bravery, spoke of him as the most unfit. God, in His providence, so ordered it, that the appointment of David might the more clearly appear to be a divine purpose, and not the design either of Samuel or Jesse. David having not been sanctified with the rest of his family, it is probable that he returned to his pastoral duties the moment the special business on which he had been summoned was done.
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown, Jamieson, Fausset & Brown, Commentary Critical and Explanatory (1871)
Verse 7 Man looketh on the outward appearance - And it is well he should, and confine his looks to that; for when he pretends to sound the heart, he usurps the prerogative of God. In what way were these communications made from God to Samuel? It must have been by direct inspirations into his heart. But what a state of holy familiarity does this argue between God and the prophet! I believe Moses himself was not more highly favored than Samuel.
Adam Clarke, Adam Clarke's Commentary (1810-1826)
Application
- How does God see you differently than people do?
- Where might God be using an unlikely person near you?
- What does God see in your heart today?