“And Jesse took an ass laden with bread, and a bottle of wine, and a kid, and sent them by David his son unto Saul.”
In this verse, Jesse, David’s father, sends David to King Saul with some gifts. Let’s explore the context and key themes of this passage.
The Selection of David:Prior to this verse, Samuel had been sent by God to Bethlehem to anoint one of Jesse’s sons as the future king of Israel. Initially, Jesse presented his eldest son, Eliab, assuming that he would be the chosen one based on his outward appearance. However, God reminded Samuel that He looks at the heart rather than external appearances (1 Samuel 16:7). Samuel then asked Jesse if he had any other sons, and it was revealed that David, the youngest son, was tending the sheep. Samuel insisted on waiting until David arrived before proceeding with the anointing. This sets the stage for Jesse sending David to Saul.
Jesse’s Gift:Jesse sends David to King Saul with a laden donkey carrying bread, a bottle of wine, and a young goat (kid). This act demonstrates Jesse’s respect and honour for Saul, who was still the reigning king of Israel. It also serves as a sign of goodwill and a token of gratitude. The specific items sent, such as bread and wine, symbolise sustenance and celebration.
David’s Role:David’s purpose in delivering these gifts was not only to present them to Saul but also to enter the service of the king. Saul was afflicted by an evil spirit from the Lord, and it was believed that David’s skilful playing of the harp would soothe Saul and provide relief from his distress (1 Samuel 16:14-23). This marks the beginning of David’s close relationship with Saul and his eventual rise in prominence.
Lessons and Applications:This passage teaches us several important lessons. Firstly, it reminds us that God looks at the heart, not external appearances. God’s choice of David as king was based on the qualities of his heart, his trust in God, and his willingness to obey Him. Secondly, Jesse’s act of sending gifts to Saul encourages us to show respect and honour to those in authority. Additionally, we can learn from David’s willingness to serve and use his talents for the benefit of others. David’s skill with the harp was not only a natural gift but also a means by which he could bring comfort and relief to Saul.
Overall, 1 Samuel 16:20 highlights the beginning of David’s journey into Saul’s service, revealing important themes of God’s selection based on the heart, honour for authority, and using one’s talents to serve others. It sets the stage for the subsequent events in David’s life, showcasing his character and ultimately leading to his anointed role as king.
