David: From Shepherd Boy to Shepherd King

During a time when Israel demanded a king the LORD provided a king for Israel (1 Samuel 8). We are told that Israel was rejecting God so God relented and gave them what they asked for, but they were forewarned that the king would take from them. Saul was anointed as the first king of Israel. Saul stood a whole head taller than anyone and was considered good-looking. Sadly, Saul lacked integrity and chose not to obey God wholeheartedly, so the LORD removed His anointing on Saul (1 Samuel 13:13-14). The LORD told the prophet, Samuel, that He wanted him to go and anoint one of Jesse’s sons in Bethlehem to be the new king. Sadly, even the prophet looked for outward appearances when trying to figure out who would be the next king. God kindly reminded him that man looks at outward appearances, but He was looking for a man after His own heart (1 Samuel 16:7).

Through David’s story, we see the sovereignty of God allowing circumstances to unfold in His timing and not mans. Even though David was anointed king as a young boy in front of his family it took years before he became king. David knew the heights of fame and notoriety among the people for his prowess as a warrior. He also knew the suffering for this fame because it caused King Saul’s jealousy to progressively increase causing David to live many years on the run in the desert and caves of Judah. David’s heart for the people was evident in the ways he sought to protect them when King Saul should have been the one fighting for the people. Despite King Saul’s rage against David, he still honored his position as God’s anointed leader until King Saul died. The other characteristic that David models for us to imitate is repentance. When David was confronted by the prophet Nathan, David repented of his sin with Bathsheba. He still suffered the consequences for his actions, but he remained faithful to the nation and in honoring God.

We have no clue what God is orchestrating in history, but we know He is always at work to bring forth His redemption that brings healing to individuals and to nations.