God Sees What People Overlook

1 Samuel Chapter 16 discloses that the LORD chose David to be the future king of the Israelites, replacing Saul, who had been disobedient to God's command(s). Because of Saul’s repeated disobedience, the LORD ultimately rejected him and expressed regret for appointing him as king. Upon further reflection, I believe that God permitted Saul’s reign as part of His permissive will, granting the Israelites’ desire to have a king like the other nations around them (Although God was their true King). While God allowed Saul to be anointed, I believe Saul was the people’s choice, not God’s ideal choice. In contrast, David was truly God’s chosen king. When we revisit the Book of Ruth, it reveals David’s bloodline. Boaz begot Obed, Obed begot Jesse, and Jesse begot David. You could say that David was already pre-ordained by God because later he becomes king.

As a closer examination is taken, we see during Samuel’s journey to find a replacement for Saul, he was attempting to seek someone who resembled a king in his own eyes or resembled what Saul’s features were. In 1 Samuel Ch. 9:2, it mentions how Kish had a son named Saul, who was better looking and more than a head taller than anyone else in all Israel. However, 1 Samuel Ch. 16:7 KJV states, “But the LORD said unto Samuel, Look not on his countenance, or on the height of his stature; because I have refused him: for The LORD seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the LORD looketh on the heart.” In other words, people will judge individuals by what they look like, but God judge people by what is in their heart. It was David's humble heart that positioned him for greatness, not his status, skill, or stature.

As followers of Christ, humility is a vital trait we are called to exemplify. David displayed a humble heart even as he tended to sheep, while his brothers were being presented to Samuel with the thought of being anointed as king. Nevertheless, David did not seek attention or elevate himself. Jesus emphasized in Luke 14:11 KJV, "For whosoever exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted." This verse offers a powerful reminder as we reflect on Saul and David’s story and its relevance today. It teaches us not to elevate ourselves above others, but to walk in humility, trusting that in time, God will honor and reward the humble.

Therefore, in closing, it is significant to walk humbly, knowing that God sees what people overlook. God lifts the lowly, and He honors the heart that yields to Him. As David faithfully served God and was anointed King, we to shall be crowned one day as followers of Christ. “Blessed is the man that endureth temptation: for when he is tried, he shall receive the crown of life, which the Lord hath promised to them that love him” (James 1:12 KJV).

Blessings,

fDawson