Main Verse: 1 Samuel 16:12-33

Good morning

David was 15-16 when he was anointed the next King of Israel. What we can derive from his life is that he was faithful in everything he did including watching his sheep (Psalm 23 i.e.). As a shepherd, he understood the meaning of “sacrifice” because he was responsible for watching his father’s flock during the cold lonely nights; he never closed his eyes because he had to watch for predators and thieves. He learned obedience by honoring his father Jesse and Ha Shem’s laws. While we know nothing about David’s upbringing, we can derive from his Psalms how much he loved and served the Lord God. So, being picked to be the next king of Israel was the coup de gras not the beginning of his walk with the Lord.

In Bible colleges across the USA, people study to be ministers; of the many who believed they were called only a few are chosen (Matthew 22:14). Jesse had eight sons all were tall and strong but only one was chosen.  The difference between David and his brothers was that he was faithful and was prepared for service. The psalms he had written and how he ministered to Saul testified to his faith in the God of his fathers. In the Old Testament, as we’ll talk about in future sessions, people vowed their hearts to serve the Lord as a community response never as a personal desire (i.e. Joshua 24:14-28). David, like Samuel, chose to serve the Lord and put his time and talents to work in His service. I encourage you today to look at David’s life and how the Lord honored David because he, David, was faithful in everything he did.  The Good News is that what David did and how he was honored is not beyond human capabilities (John 14:8-15). Be greatly encouraged today my brothers and sisters in Christ Jesus because He has not forgotten about you or the services you have done (Isaiah 49:14-23). I encourage you today to prepare yourself for service where you are even if it is in the lowest pits of hell (Matthew 25:1-13).

I.H.S. MK

Father,

You called David from the lonely hill of Bethlehem to be the next King of Israel and, his son from a Carpenter’s shop to be the King of all Kings and Lord of all Lords.  There is nothing too difficult for you except when it comes to our faithfulness. I pray for my brothers and sisters in Christ Jesus who are on the frontlines and for those who are on the cusp of service may the words “Faithfulness”, “Love”, and “Joy” never leave their hearts. I submit life and ministry to You Father and ask for empowerment so that I may continue to be a source of encouragement and conviction

In Jesus’ Name