1 Samuel 16:3

And call Jesse to the sacrifice, and I will shew thee what thou shalt do: and thou shalt anoint unto me him whom I name unto thee.

1 Samuel 16:3 (KJV)

Context

This verse is part of the account of the prophet Samuel’s mission to anoint the next king of Israel. At this point, Saul was the reigning king, but because of his disobedience, the Lord had rejected him. God sent Samuel to Bethlehem to anoint the one He had chosen. In verse 3, God instructs Samuel to call Jesse to the sacrifice, promising to show him what to do and to name the one he is to anoint. The sacrifice was a peace offering, and as the offerer, Jesse had the right to invite friends and family to share in the feast before the Lord. This provided a natural and non-suspicious occasion for Samuel to meet Jesse’s family.

Meaning

God’s words to Samuel emphasize His sovereign initiative and specific guidance. Samuel is not to choose based on appearance or human judgment, but to anoint the one God designates. The phrase “I will shew thee what thou shalt do” indicates that God reveals His will progressively, one step at a time. Samuel must obey in faith, even though the full picture is not yet clear. The act of anointing involved pouring or smearing oil on someone’s head as a symbol of consecration, commissioning, and empowerment for a specific role. Here, the one anointed would be set apart by God for a special purpose.

Biblical connections

As the story unfolds, Samuel arrives in Bethlehem and invites Jesse and his sons to the sacrifice. Jesse presents seven of his sons before Samuel, starting with the eldest, Eliab. However, God informs Samuel that He does not look at outward appearances but at the heart (1 Samuel 16:7). This directly connects to the instruction in verse 3, where Samuel is told to anoint the one God names, not the one who impresses human eyes. Ultimately, David, who was tending the sheep, is brought before Samuel, and God confirms that he is the chosen one. Samuel then anoints David in the presence of his brothers. This anointing of David prefigures the coming of Jesus Christ, the Son of David, who was anointed by God as the ultimate King and Messiah.

Application

This passage teaches that God’s criteria for selecting leaders are not based on outward appearances or human standards. God looks at the heart, examining inner character and motivations. This reminds us to prioritize inner qualities such as faithfulness, obedience, and integrity. The selection of David demonstrates God’s sovereignty in choosing leaders, reminding us that leaders are ultimately appointed by God, and His guidance is essential in making wise choices. David’s anointing marked the beginning of a significant transformation in his life, from shepherd to king, and his heart for God played a vital role throughout his reign. This highlights the importance of cultivating a heart that seeks after God, as it prepares us for the tasks and responsibilities God has for us.

Samuel’s obedience in following God’s instructions is an example for us to trust in God’s guidance, even when it may seem unconventional or contrary to human expectations. By faithfully obeying God, Samuel played a crucial role in anointing David as the future king. God often reveals His will progressively, giving us one step at a time, and we must obey in faith even when the full picture is not yet clear.

Reflection

Consider how God may be guiding you step by step, even when you cannot see the whole plan. Are you willing to obey His specific instructions, trusting that He will show you what to do? Just as Samuel had to trust God’s choice of David, we are called to trust God’s choices and timing, knowing that His ways are higher than our ways.