1 Samuel 13:13-14; Acts 13:13-23
When we first encounter him in Scripture he is tending his father’s sheep. He is introduced as the youngest son of Jesse, son of Obed, son of Boas and Ruth. Later, we learn that Jesus came through this family’s lineage. Matthew 1:1-17
The Scriptures teach us that Samuel (the judge/priest/prophet) was sent to his father’s home to anoint a new king for Israel. At first there was concern and confusion on who Samuel would anoint but once God communicates His selection it is clear that the “Man after (God’s) own heart” is the one the Lords prefers for “The Lord looks on the heart.” 1 Samuel 16:7
Upon further examination of the Scriptures we learn that he “Was ruddy and had beautiful eyes and was handsome.” 1 Samuel 16:11 He is also identified in Scriptures as “A man skillful in playing the lyre…a man of valor, a man of war, prudent in speech, and a man of good presence, and the Lord is with him.” 1 Samuel 16:16-18 The Scripture also teach us that he was employed to play his harp/lyre for King Saul to sooth the king when his spirit was troubled.
1 Samuel 16:19-23
In time we learn from the Scriptures that the Philistines came to battle Judah. In those days when opposing forces met for war instead of having a lot of casualties the two forces would select one warrior to champion their cause and the one who won would settle the outcome for all. Wouldn’t that be an interesting way to settle conflicts today!
Now the Philistines champion was a giant named Goliath and he was a very intimidating figure. He was so intimidating that the Israelites found it very difficult to have one of their soldiers volunteer to face him in one on one combat. So he would stand in the middle of both armies and mock the Israelites and their God. As he went on and on with his challenge even the older sons of Jesse declined his invite. The Scriptures say “For forty days the Philistine came forward and took his stand, morning and evening.” 1 Samuel 17:16
Was there no one man in Israel’s ranks with the courage to face this insulter? It certainly seemed that way. Until one day when a young shepherd came to check on his brothers. Once he heard the mocking and ridicule he was infuriated and made it known that he would answer the challenge. To convince the king of his ability he told how he protected his sheep from a lion and bear and that he would do the same for his nation with this threat. So after being accepted he went into battle with his sling and five stones. The giant said all kinds of things to unnerve him but in the end the “Man after (God’s) own heart” defeated him and removed his head!The “Man after (God’s) own heart” is none other than DAVID, God’s “Beloved!”
De Soto church of Christ 