David, a Man After God’s HeartSample

Anointed and equipped

“Then Samuel took the horn of oil and anointed him in the midst of his brothers. And the Spirit of the Lord rushed upon David from that day forward.” (1 Samuel 16:13)

Undoubtedly, David was very surprised when Samuel anointed him king. How could he, an ordinary young man without any experience in politics, become the king of Israel? He was indeed a good and brave shepherd, but could he also “keep” and guide a whole country instead of a flock of sheep?

When God appointed David as king, he also equipped him for the task. That is the meaning of the phrase: “The Spirit of the Lord rushed upon David from that day forward”. David’s demanding task was made possible by God’s special guidance and presence.

People around David noticed that “the Lord was with him” (1 Samuel 16:18).

King Saul initially appreciated David, but later considered him a dangerous competitor for the throne. As an extra explanation of his changed attitude, we read that “Saul was afraid of David because the Lord was with him but had departed from Saul.” (1 Samuel 18:12) Since Saul had rejected the Lord (as we read on day 1), God’s Spirit had left him — and the effects were devastating.

David’s life reflects the popular saying: “God does not call the qualified; He qualifies the called”. If we submit ourselves to God and let his Spirit reign in us, He will equip us for the tasks He wants us to do. How is this in your life?