1 Samuel 16-Obedience Over Sacrifice
Read 1 Samuel 16:7
Today’s Truth
In 1 Samuel 16, God sends Samuel to anoint a new king after rejecting Saul. When Samuel sees Jesse’s oldest son, he assumes this must be the one God has chosen. But God reminds him that He doesn’t judge by outward appearance—He looks at the heart. Eventually, God directs Samuel to anoint David, the youngest and least expected of Jesse’s sons.
This passage teaches us that God’s standards are different from the world’s. People may judge based on status, talent, or appearance, but God sees what truly matters—a heart that seeks after Him. David wasn’t the strongest or most impressive by human standards, but he had a heart devoted to God, and that’s what made him the right choice.
Discussion Questions
- Are you more focused on outward appearances or on developing a heart after God?
- Have you ever felt overlooked? How can you trust God’s timing and purpose for your life?
- What steps can you take today to cultivate a heart that honors God?
Application
Lessons from this passage:
God Sees Beyond the Surface – While people focus on appearance, God values character and faithfulness. (1 Samuel 16:7)
God Uses the Unexpected – David was overlooked by men but chosen by God. Your worth is determined by God, not by human opinion. (1 Samuel 16:11-12)
God Prepares Us in Secret – Before David became king, he spent years tending sheep and growing in faith. God often prepares us in hidden places before calling us to greater things. (1 Samuel 16:13)
Do you feel unseen or overlooked? Remember that God sees your heart and has a purpose for you. Instead of striving for outward approval, focus on developing a heart that pleases God. In His perfect time, He will lift you up.
