David Anointed by Samuel

6When they arrived, Samuel saw Eliab and thought, “Surely the Lord’s anointed stands here before the Lord.”

7But 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.”

8Then Jesse called Abinadab and had him pass in front of Samuel. But Samuel said, “The Lordhas not chosen this one either.” 9Jesse then had Shammah pass by, but Samuel said, “Nor has the Lord chosen this one.” 10Jesse had seven of his sons pass before Samuel, but Samuel said to him, “The Lord has not chosen these.” 11So he asked Jesse, “Are these all the sons you have?”

“There is still the youngest,” Jesse answered. “He is tending the sheep.”

Samuel said, “Send for him; we will not sit down until he arrives.”

12So he sent for him and had him brought in. He was glowing with health and had a fine appearance and handsome features.

Then the Lord said, “Rise and anoint him; this is the one.”

13So 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.

Thoughts: Saul was handsome and stood a head above all the other Israelites.  But this time Samuel had learned his lesson.  The Lord does not look at the outward appearance- the Lord looks at the heart.
      David was small, but he had a heart for God and he had a brave enough heart to stand up to Goliath and to Saul.  Later God would say that he was a "man after mine own heart" (1 Sam. 13:44; Acts 13:22).  We cannot help how tall or handsome we are (or are not).  We can help that our heart be after God. 

Prayer: Lord, let my heart be attuned to your heart.