Real Hope: Discovering Hope in the Life of DavidSample

Samuel Annoints David As King

We’re so used to judging and assessing things based on our physical sight and social experience that it’s easy to make mistakes with spiritual matters. But we need discernment so we can see the heart. By all outward appearances David’s seven brothers seemed to be better material for leadership and royalty. David was just the youngest of eight sons. Yet the youngest and least important in the family was the one God had chosen. David was outside doing his job, being faithful in small things and obeying his father.

God’s selection of David demonstrates that, to have a calling, we do not need to quit our careers or work in fulltime ministry, nor do we need prestige, influence or power. God chooses unlikely individuals to execute His work, so everyone knows it’s God’s work, not man’s effort (see 1 Corinthians 1:27–28). You may not be clever or popular, and others may reject you because of your faith. But throughout the Bible we see a God who lavishes His grace on those who appear unqualified. If you find yourself today in a lowly place, far from what you believe God has called you to do – remain faithful with what is in front of you. This is a time of training – not waiting!

In Psalm 78:70–72, we read that David never lost his shepherd’s heart.

Written by HEIDI WYSMAN