Today’s Reading 1 Samuel 15-17
Focal Scripture: 1 Samuel 16:7 “but the Lord said to Samuel, do not look at his appearance or his stature because I have rejected him. Humans do not see what the Lord sees, for humans see what is visible, but the Lord sees the heart.”
Here we see one extreme to the next. Earlier Saul was anointed king. The bible tells us that his heart was changed in the beginning. It tells us that he accomplished great victories. It also tells us that he made poor choices. He lacked trust and defied what the Lord asked him to do.
Saul’s heart was changed but it did not last long. He chose a path that was not good for him or for Israel. He chose a path that lead his heart to destruction and the people of Israel to not trust what the Lord said. In doing so Saul lost his kingship even though he still ruled temporarily.
Then we see God tell Samuel to go find the next king. As he goes he is heart broken over Saul’s sin and coming failure as the King. When he arrives to his destination he assumes that the first young man he sees will be the one to be chosen. However, God had a different plan and tells him you are looking at the people all wrong.
Saul was big and tall. He was handsome. He was a good warrior. He also did not want to listen to God. He also found ways to justify his bad behavior. In doing so he compromised himself and was punished severely. Saul’s heart was no longer bent towards God but David’s was and he would be chosen as leader because of that heart.
The implications of this passage are extraordinary. Saul was chosen because of his appearance. He looked the part. He checked off the boxes. He was exactly what everyone thought a king should look like. David, was the youngest, tended sheep but had a heart willing to do what the Lord asked him.
To often we look at leaders for how the look. They might check off all of the boxes but their hearts are corrupt and they will not do what the Lord asks. These leaders follow their own heart and it causes destruction. If you are looking for a good leader at home, church, or for any other reason, look at the heart first.
Some people get chosen for leadership when they are not ready. Others are ready but have tremendous character flaws. They might handle situations that are difficult but in the process treat others poorly. They might get things done but lack the knowledge of godly rest. They may strive for success but lack the fortitude to stand up to those who do evil.
The example given here in scripture is life changing if understood correctly. Saul lead by skill and talent. David lead to please the Lord. This difference is massive in leadership. Especially when leading God’s people. Saul looked the part, David had a heart for God.
What type of person are you today? Are you more concerned about looking the part or are you pursuing a heart that will please the Lord. God will honor a heart that seeks him above everything else. The question is will we sacrifice our wants to rest more in God than our ambitions. Our hearts will reveal who we really are to others.
Tomorrow I plan on reading 1 Samuel 18-20
