Devotions for Week 1: David: Finding Peace When We Are Overwhelmed: Every Thread Matters (WATCH HERE)
1 Samuel 16:8 Then Jesse called Abinadab and had him pass in front of Samuel. But Samuel said, “The Lord has not chosen this one either.” 9 Jesse then had Shammah pass by, but Samuel said, “Nor has the Lord chosen this one.” 10 Jesse had seven of his sons pass before Samuel, but Samuel said to him, “The Lord has not chosen these.” 11 So he asked Jesse, “Are these all the sons you have?”
“There is still the youngest,” Jesse answered. “He is tending the sheep.”
Samuel said, “Send for him; we will not sit down until he arrives.”
12 So he sent for him and had him brought in. He was glowing with health and had a fine appearance and handsome features.
Then the Lord said, “Rise and anoint him; this is the one.”
In 1 Samuel 16 we watch a quiet and surprising moment unfold. Jesse presents his sons before Samuel, one by one. Each seems impressive in his own way. Yet the Lord repeatedly says no. God is not scanning resumes or measuring visible strength. He is looking at the heart. When David is finally called in from the fields, he is not dressed for ceremony or expecting a future crown. Still, the Lord speaks clearly and decisively. “Arise, anoint him, for this is the one.” God claimed David before he understands what that claim will cost or where it will lead.
This passage teaches us that God calls before the path is explained. David receives oil on his head long before he receives a throne. He will face years of obscurity, danger, and confusion. None of that is mentioned in the moment of anointing. God does not outline the steps. God establishes identity. David is chosen because God has set his love and purpose upon him. The calling rests on who David is in God’s sight, not on what David has yet to do.
In a similar way, a parent names a child before the child understands anything about the world. The name is spoken with hope and love. The child grows into it over time. The name does not depend on future achievements or failures. In the same way, David is named and claimed by God before he understands the journey ahead. The anointing comes first. The story follows.
Many of us wait for certainty before trusting God. We want clarity, security, and predictable results. David had none of these when oil ran down his head. He simply stood and received what God declared over him. Our baptism reminds us of the same reality. God claims us as beloved before we understand where he will lead us. Faith begins with receiving God’s word about us and then walking forward in faith one step at a time.
Reflect: What does it mean for you to be called and loved by God before you perform or prove anything? How might this truth bring peace or courage to a place of uncertainty in your life today?
Prayer: Faithful God, thank you for claiming us as your own before the road is clear. Help us trust your voice above our fears and walk forward in the identity you have given us. Teach us to rest in your faithful love. Amen.