“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.”
This verse is part of the account of the prophet Samuel’s mission to anoint the next king of Israel. Let’s examine the context and explore the significance of this verse:
Context:At this point in the biblical narrative, Saul was the reigning king of Israel. However, due to his disobedience to God, the Lord had rejected him as king. Samuel, the prophet and judge of Israel, was instructed by God to go to Bethlehem to anoint the one whom God had chosen as the next king.
Divine Guidance:In 1 Samuel 16:3, God instructs Samuel to call Jesse, the father of David, and to offer a sacrifice. God assures Samuel that He will reveal whom Samuel should anoint as the next king. This verse highlights the divine guidance and involvement in the selection of leaders, emphasising that God has a specific plan and purpose in choosing individuals to fulfil His will.
Anointing:The act of anointing in ancient Israel was significant. It involved pouring or smearing oil on someone’s head as a symbol of consecration, commissioning, and empowerment for a specific role or task. In this case, Samuel was instructed to anoint the one whom God would name, indicating that this person would be chosen and set apart by God for a special purpose.
The Selection of David: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. 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.
Lessons and Applications:
- God’s Ways Are Different from Human Ways:This passage highlights that God’s criteria for selecting leaders and individuals is not based on outward appearances or human standards. God looks at the heart, examining the inner character and motivations. This reminds us to prioritise inner qualities such as faithfulness, obedience, and integrity.
- God’s Sovereignty in Choosing Leaders:The selection of David as king demonstrates God’s sovereignty in choosing leaders. It serves as a reminder that leaders are ultimately appointed by God, and His guidance and discernment are essential in making wise choices.
- The Importance of Heart Transformation:David’s anointing marked the beginning of a significant transformation in his life. He went from being a shepherd to becoming a 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.
- Trusting God’s Guidance: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.
In summary, 1 Samuel 16:3 portrays the divine guidance and involvement in the selection of leaders. It emphasizes the significance of heart transformation, God’s sovereignty in choosing leaders, and the importance of trusting in God’s guidance.
