The youngest son

There is a vast difference between human judgment and God’s judgement. Today’s passage is a great example of that. There was a son who had not been invited to the important meal. He was the eighth son and was tending sheep. (1) For some reason, Jesse, the father, did not value this son highly. The exact reason is unknown, but it’s clear he was regarded as lesser than the other brothers. (2) Samuel insisted on waiting for this son to arrive before starting the meal. Even at this point, Samuel kept the real reason for his visit to Bethlehem a secret. (3) When Jesse sent word for this son, he came with a handsome appearance, a pure heart, and was in line with God’s will. The Lord then commanded Samuel, “Arise, anoint him; for this is he.” At this point, Jesse and his other sons likely thought the anointing was for a certain significant mission. Samuel hid the true purpose of the anointing out of fear of King Saul.

The name David

Samuel anointed him in the midst of his brothers. (1) His name was David, which means “beloved.” This name applies also to Jesus Christ, the Son of God. David is a type of Christ. (2) David was already a believer in the Lord (in New Testament terms, he had been saved through the Holy Spirit), but when he was anointed, the Spirit of the Lord rushed mightily upon him. This indicates that he was endowed with the power of the Holy Spirit that is necessary to fulfill his mission. David was given wisdom, courage, judgment, and faith as a king. (3) Samuel returned to his home in Ramah and lived peacefully the remainder of his earthly life. He had been troubled by Saul, but now he had seen the salvation of Israel. It was not Jesse or Samuel who chose David. The Lord chose him with His own hand. We too, may be deemed insignificant by the world, but were chosen by God in Jesus Christ. As proof of being chosen, we are sealed with the Holy Spirit. Anyone led by the Spirit of God is a child of God. Let’s continue to listen and obey the voice of the Holy Spirit today.