1 Samuel 16:1-13: The Anointing of David
The Rejection of Eliab
In 1 Samuel 16:1-13, we read the story of the anointing of David as the next king of Israel. The chapter begins with God speaking to Samuel, saying, "How long will you mourn for Saul, seeing I have rejected him from reigning over Israel?" (1 Samuel 16:1). God had rejected Saul as king due to his disobedience, and now it was time to anoint a new king.
God instructed Samuel to fill his horn with oil and go to Bethlehem, to the house of Jesse, for one of his sons would be anointed as the next king. When Samuel arrived, he saw Eliab, Jesse's eldest son, and thought, "Surely the Lord's anointed is before Him." However, God said to Samuel, "Do not look at his appearance or at his physical stature, because I have refused him. For the Lord does not see as man sees; for man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart" (1 Samuel 16:7).
The Anointing of David
Samuel then asked Jesse to bring out his other sons, but none of them were chosen by God. Finally, Jesse brought out his youngest son, David, who was tending his father's sheep. When David arrived, God said, "Arise, anoint him; for this is he" (1 Samuel 16:12).
The Significance of David's Anointing
The anointing of David marked a significant turning point in Israel's history. It was a declaration of God's sovereignty and his ability to raise up a new leader, despite the failure of the previous one. David's anointing also foreshadowed the coming of Jesus Christ, who would be the ultimate king of Israel and the savior of humanity.
Lessons from 1 Samuel 16:1-13
- God looks at the heart: Unlike humans, who judge based on outward appearances, God looks at the heart. This teaches us to focus on inner qualities, such as character and integrity, rather than external appearances.
- God is sovereign: The anointing of David demonstrates God's power and sovereignty in human affairs. He can raise up or bring down leaders according to his will.
- God can use anyone: David, a young shepherd boy, was chosen by God to become the next king of Israel. This teaches us that God can use anyone, regardless of their background or social status, to achieve his purposes.
In conclusion, the anointing of David in 1 Samuel 16:1-13 is a powerful reminder of God's sovereignty and his ability to raise up new leaders. It also teaches us valuable lessons about the importance of character, God's sovereignty, and his ability to use anyone to achieve his purposes.
