David was still a teenager in the passage above. He was destined to become the next King of Israel. He started out small. And not just small, but utterly hidden. Even his own father wrote him off as insignificant.
Samuel, the prophet, came to anoint one of Jesse’s sons to be the next King of Israel. Jesse proudly presented all of his sons. Except David, the youngest guy who was taking care of the sheep in the back. That’s where David usually was—out in the open field, invisible to the world. He spent his days defending his flock and worshiping God with his harp.
Though his own father overlooked him, David was secure in His Creator.
Samuel eventually calls for David and anoints him. That overlooked shepherd became the next king of Israel.
As I read, it hit me.
David grew in secret. In his season of hiddenness, away from the temptation of pride, he cultivated himself in the Lord. He may have already possessed some impressive characteristics (he was handsome, brave, and talented), but what made ALL the difference was that he was skilled in worship.
He was trained in focusing on God and magnifying His glory. While God kept him hidden, David delighted himself in God’s presence. The young psalmist was experienced in conversing with the LORD. He was familiar with the intricacies of His Creator’s heart. He deeply and personally knew the LORD.
It’s no wonder that David was called “a man after God’s own heart” (1 Samuel 13:14)
This is just what I needed to hear today! The Lord works in mysterious ways! Thank you for the wonderful article! I love your writing style!
Thank you so much! Glad it encouraged you! Praise God! <3