Tending the sheep

THE QUESTION

When the prophet Samuel came to Bethlehem to anoint Israel’s next king, Jesse’s youngest son wasn’t even there. Where was he?

A) Playing music for Saul

B) Tending the sheep ✓

C) Fighting the Philistines

D) Hiding in a cave

A closer look

Jesse brought his older sons before Samuel one by one, and none of them was God’s choice. Even Samuel was impressed by the eldest until God told him, “People look at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart” (1 Samuel 16:7). So they sent for the boy out in the fields.

When David came in, the LORD said, “Rise and anoint him; this is the one.” Samuel took the horn of oil and anointed him in the presence of his brothers (1 Samuel 16:12-13).

If you thought of David playing music for King Saul, that’s a lovely scene too. It came a little later, after he had been anointed (1 Samuel 16:23).

The shepherd boy who had oil poured on his head is the same David who wrote today’s verse: “You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows” (Psalm 23:5).

We hope this helped you grow in God’s Word today. Now head back to your email and tell us how you liked today’s devotional. 🙏