And it came to passe when they were come, that he looked on Eliab, and said, Surely the Lords anointed is before him. 1 Samuel 16:6 (KJV)
This verse occurs in the narrative of 1 Samuel where the prophet Samuel is sent by God to Jesse’s house to find a new king for Israel after the rejection of Saul because of his disobedience. Samuel arrives and looks at Eliab, the oldest son, and declares, “Surely the LORD’s anointed is before him.” The surrounding context (1 Samuel 16:3‑4) makes clear that God had already told Samuel that He would show Him the chosen one among Jesse’s sons.
The Importance of God’s Choice
Both passages stress that God’s selection is not based on outward appearance. While Samuel’s first impression was that Eliab might be the one, the Scripture repeatedly reminds us (see 1 Samuel 16:7) that God looks at the heart rather than external qualities. This principle warns that human expectations can be deceiving and that God’s wisdom surpasses our own.
Discerning God’s Will
Samuel’s initial assumption illustrates the need for careful discernment. Even a prophet can make a mistaken judgment when relying on outward signs. The study therefore urges believers to seek the Lord’s guidance earnestly, relying on the Holy Spirit rather than personal perception, and to remain open to divine correction.
Trusting God’s Sovereignty
God’s instruction to Samuel that “one of the sons of Jesse shall be anointed” (1 Samuel 16:3) underscores His sovereign authority in choosing leaders. Although Samuel first focused on Eliab, God later directed his attention to David, the youngest son, demonstrating that God’s plans are independent of human opinion. This encourages confidence in God’s sovereign choices, even when they appear unexpected.
The Anointing of the Holy Spirit
The eventual anointing of David (1 Samuel 16:13) symbolized the empowerment of the Holy Spirit for a specific purpose. The verse also serves as a foreshadowing of the ultimate anointing of Jesus Christ, the ultimate “LORD’s anointed,” who was empowered by the Holy Spirit for His messianic ministry.
Application
The passage calls believers to trust God’s choices, avoid judging by appearances, and seek the Holy Spirit’s guidance in discerning God’s will. It reminds us to be obedient and open to God’s leading, knowing that He equips and empowers those He selects for His purposes. For a fuller understanding, readers are encouraged to study the surrounding verses of 1 Samuel 16.
