3 Individuals Who Received and Followed God's Vision Part 2: David

David was just a young shepherd, overlooked and underestimated even by his own family. While others saw him as the least likely candidate, God saw his heart. David's outward appearance didn’t matter to God — what mattered was the condition of his heart.

"But 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.' " — 1 Samuel 16:7

Even though Samuel had many options before him, he stayed connected to God’s voice. God knew exactly who He had chosen.

"Jesse had seven of his sons pass before Samuel, but Samuel said to him, 'The Lord has not chosen these.' So 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.' " — 1 Samuel 16:10-11

When David arrived, God’s choice was clear. Despite being overlooked by his family, God had set David apart for something extraordinary.

"Then the Lord said, 'Rise and anoint him; this is the one.' So 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." — 1 Samuel 16:12-13

Application: You might feel unqualified or insignificant as if you’re the "least of the least." Perhaps you think you don’t have what it takes to fulfill God’s vision for your life. But don’t disqualify yourself — God hasn’t. Just like David, God sees your heart, not your outward circumstances or limitations. There is still time and opportunity for you to step into God’s plan.

David could have never imagined that God would make him king of Israel or that he would be remembered as a man after God’s own heart. He couldn’t have foreseen the promise God made to him — that through his lineage, the Savior of the world would come.

"Things which the eye has not seen and the ear has not heard, and which have not entered the heart of man, all that God has prepared for those who love Him." — 1 Corinthians 2:9

If you trust in God’s vision, He will use you in ways beyond anything you can imagine, just as He did with David.

Action Step: Today, take a moment to reflect on the story of David. Ask yourself: Are there areas in your life where you feel overlooked, unqualified, or insignificant? Bring those feelings before God in prayer. Ask Him to help you see yourself as He sees you — not based on your outward circumstances, but on the heart He has given you.

• What is one decision you can initiate today for something you have put off because of disqualifying yourself? Take a bold step today! Dare to start something God has told you to do, and don't wait anymore.

Write down any thoughts or impressions God places on your heart. Remember that no matter where you are right now, God has a plan and vision for your life that is greater than anything you can imagine. Be open to His call, knowing that He has not disqualified you — He has chosen you. Now is the time to step forward in faith and trust in His vision for your future.