The Genealogy of JesusSample

If Ruth and Boaz’s love story hit the press today, the headline might read, “Tragedy turned Triumph.” But, as with God’s involvement with humanity, their story was far from over. It was the birth of their son, Obed, the father of Jesse, whose youngest son, David, became King.

Although Jesse is rarely mentioned in Scripture, it establishes the lineage of Jesse to Jesus. Scripture does not refer to Jesse as “father of the year” but states that he is a Bethlehemite and father to eight sons and two daughters.

First Samuel 16 detailed a conversation between the LORD and Samuel, the priest. God sent Samuel to Jesse’s house in search of a new king. The search looked promising as Jesse presented seven sons. Then Samuel said to Jesse, “the LORD has not chosen these.” God instructed Samuel, “the Lord sees not as man sees; man looks on the outward appearance, but the LORD looks on the heart” (I Sam 16:8 ESV). Then Jesse said he had one son tending sheep and sent word for him to return home. When Samuel saw him, the LORD said, “Arise, anoint him, for this is he” (I Samuel 16:12).

1. How does the fact that God sees your heart give hope in His plans for you?

Pray: Ask the Lord to help you see humanity as he does.