“And it came to pass, when they were come, that he looked on Eliab, and said, Surely the LORD’S anointed is before him.”
Context:This verse is part of the narrative in the book of 1 Samuel that describes the process of choosing a new king for Israel. Saul was the first king of Israel, but due to his disobedience and the rejection of his kingship by God, Samuel, the prophet and judge, was sent by God to anoint a new king from the house of Jesse.
The Importance of God’s Choice:In this verse, Samuel had arrived at the house of Jesse, and when he saw Eliab, Jesse’s oldest son, he thought that he was the one whom God had chosen as the next king. However, God had a different plan. This verse highlights an important spiritual principle that appearances can be deceiving. Humans tend to focus on outward qualities, but God looks at the heart (1 Samuel 16:7). It is a reminder that God’s choices may not align with human expectations, and His wisdom surpasses our understanding.
Discerning God’s Will:Samuel’s initial assumption about Eliab reveals the need for careful discernment when seeking God’s will. Despite Samuel’s stature as a prophet, he momentarily made an incorrect judgment based on outward appearance. This teaches us that we must be diligent in seeking the Lord’s guidance and not rely solely on our own perceptions or assumptions. We should be open to the leading of the Holy Spirit, who helps us discern God’s purposes beyond what our natural senses perceive.
Trusting God’s Sovereignty:This verse also highlights the sovereignty of God in choosing His anointed. God had already instructed Samuel that He would show him the chosen one when he arrived at Jesse’s house (1 Samuel 16:3). Although Samuel initially looked at Eliab, God corrected him and directed his attention to David, the youngest son of Jesse. This underscores the fact that God’s plans are not dependent on human opinions or expectations. It encourages us to trust in God’s sovereignty and have faith that His chosen ones will fulfil His purposes.
The Anointing of the Holy Spirit:This verse foreshadows the anointing of David as the future king of Israel. The anointing with oil was a significant act in ancient Israel, symbolising the empowering of the Holy Spirit for a specific purpose or office. David would later receive this anointing from Samuel, signifying God’s selection of him as the rightful king. This event serves as a foreshadowing of the anointing of Jesus Christ, the ultimate chosen one, who was anointed by the Holy Spirit for His messianic ministry.
Application:This verse encourages us to rely on God’s discernment and trust His sovereign choices, even when they seem unexpected or contrary to human expectations. We should not judge people solely by outward appearances, for God looks at the heart. Instead, we should seek the guidance of the Holy Spirit, allowing Him to lead us and provide insight into God’s will. Additionally, this verse reminds us of the importance of being open and obedient to God’s leading, knowing that He equips and empowers His chosen ones for the tasks He has set before them.
Remember to read the surrounding verses and the rest of the chapter for a complete understanding of the context and message of 1 Samuel 16. May this study deepen your understanding of God’s ways and His sovereignty in choosing His anointed ones.
