Anointing David: God’s Choice and Our Transformation

Executive Summary

The story of 1 Samuel 16, “Anointing David: God’s Choice and Our Transformation,” unveils God’s unexpected selection of David as the future king of Israel. Samuel, grieving Saul’s rejection, is directed by God to Bethlehem to anoint one of Jesse’s sons. Despite the imposing appearance of Jesse’s elder sons, God chooses David, the youngest and least likely, tending the sheep. This chapter beautifully illustrates that God looks at the heart, not outward appearances. It highlights themes of divine sovereignty, humility, and the transformative power of the Holy Spirit. It challenges us to examine our own hearts and seek God’s will, even when it defies our expectations, reminding us that true leadership flows from a heart consecrated to God. This is the story of David’s humble beginnings and the profound impact of God’s unseen hand shaping destinies.

Introduction: 1 Samuel 16 marks a crucial turning point in Israel’s history and a pivotal moment in the life of David. With Saul’s reign faltering, God sets in motion the process of establishing a new king, not according to human standards, but according to His own divine wisdom. This chapter is not merely a historical account but a profound lesson in discerning God’s will, recognizing His hidden blessings, and understanding true leadership as service rooted in humility.

Commentary on 1 Samuel 16

1 Samuel 16:1

KJV: And the Lord said unto Samuel, How long wilt thou mourn for Saul, seeing I have rejected him from reigning over Israel? fill thine horn with oil, and go, I will send thee to Jesse the Bethlehemite: for I have provided me a king among his sons.

NKJV: Now the Lord said to Samuel, “How long will you mourn for Saul, seeing I have rejected him from reigning over Israel? Fill your horn with oil, and go; I am sending you to Jesse the Bethlehemite, for I have provided Myself a king among his sons.”

Samuel’s grief for Saul reveals the human struggle to accept God’s will. God’s question, “How long wilt thou mourn?” is a rebuke, urging Samuel to move forward with divine purpose. The horn of oil symbolizes the Holy Spirit’s anointing, signifying consecration and empowerment for kingship. Bethlehem, the humble birthplace of David, foreshadows the humility of Christ, who would also be born there. This verse sets the stage for a transition from a king chosen by the people to a king chosen by God. We can apply this to our lives by acknowledging that God has a plan for us even when it is difficult to see.

Origen, reflecting on divine grief and our own spiritual journey, wrote, “Μὴ οὖν νομίσῃς ὅτι ἁπλῶς οὐδὲ ὁ Θεὸς ἀποστρέφεται τι καὶ λυπεῖται, ὅτε βλέπει ἡμᾶς ἀργοὺς καὶ ἀκηδεῖς τῶν σωτηρίων ἀρετῶν” (Contra Celsum IV.71) – “Do not think that God simply turns away or is not saddened when He sees us idle and careless about saving virtues.” This underscores that God’s rejection of Saul wasn’t arbitrary but rooted in Saul’s own choices and failings. Similarly, we must align our wills with God’s to avoid being rejected in our own spiritual journeys. Consider how you utilize website builder tools to spread your message.

1 Samuel 16:2-3

KJV: And Samuel said, How can I go? if Saul hear it, he will kill me. And the Lord said, Take an heifer with thee, and say, I am come to sacrifice to the Lord. And call Jesse to the sacrifice, and I will shew thee what thou shalt do: and thou shalt anoint unto me him whom I shew thee.

NKJV: And Samuel said, “How can I go? If Saul hears it, he will kill me.” But the Lord said, “Take a heifer with you, and say, ‘I have come to sacrifice to the Lord.’ Then invite Jesse to the sacrifice, and I will show you what you shall do; you shall anoint for Me the one I designate to you.”

Samuel’s fear is a natural human response, highlighting the risk involved in obeying God’s command. God’s provision of a cover story (a sacrificial offering) acknowledges Samuel’s fear while still requiring obedience. This demonstrates God’s sensitivity and wisdom in leading His people. The instruction to invite Jesse to the sacrifice indicates that the selection process would take place within the context of worship and communal fellowship. This emphasizes the importance of seeking God’s guidance within the community of faith. In our own lives, we often face fear when pursuing God’s calling. However, like Samuel, we must trust in God’s provision and obey despite our fears.

St. Athanasius says “Δεῖ γὰρ ἡμᾶς μιμεῖσθαι τὸν Σαμουήλ, ὅστις, φοβούμενος τὸν Σαούλ, ὑπήκουσεν τῷ Θεῷ” (Vita Antonii, 14) – “For we must imitate Samuel, who, fearing Saul, obeyed God.” This is a powerful reminder that obedience to God often requires overcoming our fears, a theme echoed throughout the lives of the saints. It also reminds us of the courage required to proclaim truth in the face of opposition.

1 Samuel 16:4-5

KJV: And Samuel did that which the Lord spake, and came to Bethlehem. And the elders of the town trembled at his coming, and said, Comest thou peaceably? And he said, Peaceably: I am come to sacrifice unto the Lord: sanctify yourselves, and come with me to the sacrifice. And he sanctified Jesse and his sons, and called them to the sacrifice.

NKJV: So Samuel did what the Lord said, and went to Bethlehem. And the elders of the town trembled at his coming, and said, “Do you come peaceably?” And he said, “Peaceably; I have come to sacrifice to the Lord. Sanctify yourselves, and come with me to the sacrifice.” Then he consecrated Jesse and his sons, and invited them to the sacrifice.

The elders’ trembling reflects their awareness of Samuel’s authority as a prophet and the potential consequences of his visit. Samuel’s assurance of peace is crucial to allaying their fears and creating an atmosphere of openness. The call to sanctification emphasizes the importance of spiritual preparation before approaching God. The consecration of Jesse and his sons highlights that the selection process would be a sacred event, requiring purity of heart and mind. This highlights the importance of approaching God with reverence and seeking purification through repentance and prayer. We should remember to sanctify our lives daily by examining our hearts and turning away from sin.

This scene resonates with the call to holiness found throughout the Old Testament. As St. Cyril of Alexandria wrote, “Ἡ γὰρ ἁγιότης ἐστὶ τὸ κατὰ Θεὸν εἶναι” (Commentary on John, Book 1) – “For holiness is to be according to God.” The elders’ reaction and Samuel’s call to sanctification underscores the importance of setting ourselves apart for God’s purposes and approaching Him with reverence.

1 Samuel 16:6-7

KJV: And it came to pass, when they were come, that he looked on Eliab, and said, Surely the Lord’s anointed is before him. But the Lord said unto Samuel, Look not on his countenance, or on the height of his stature; because I have refused him: for the Lord seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the Lord looketh on the heart.

NKJV: So it was, when they came, that he looked at Eliab and said, “Surely the Lord’s anointed is before Him!” But the Lord said to Samuel, “Do not look at his appearance or at his physical stature, because I have refused him. For the Lord does not see as man sees; for man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.”

Samuel’s initial judgment based on Eliab’s appearance reflects the common human tendency to value outward qualities. God’s rebuke, “Look not on his countenance,” is a powerful reminder that true worth lies not in physical attributes but in the condition of the heart. The phrase “the Lord seeth not as man seeth” is a central theme of this chapter, emphasizing God’s ability to discern hidden qualities and potential. This teaches us to be wary of judging others based on superficial characteristics and to cultivate a heart of humility and compassion. In today’s world, where physical appearance is often valued above all else, this verse is more relevant than ever. True worth lies in character, integrity, and love for God and others.

St. Augustine’s words echo in this verse, saying “Noli foras ire, in te ipsum redi, in interiore homine habitat veritas” (De Vera Religione, 39.72) – “Do not go outside, return to yourself. Truth dwells in the inner man.” This calls us to introspection, recognizing that true understanding of God and of ourselves begins with an examination of our inner lives, our hearts. It highlights the contrast between worldly values and Godly values.

1 Samuel 16:8-10

KJV: Then Jesse called Abinadab, and made him pass before Samuel. And he said, Neither hath the Lord chosen this. Then Jesse made Shammah to pass by. And he said, Neither hath the Lord chosen this. Again, Jesse made seven of his sons to pass before Samuel. And Samuel said unto Jesse, The Lord hath not chosen these.

NKJV: Then Jesse called Abinadab and made him pass before Samuel. And he said, “Neither has the Lord chosen this one.” Then Jesse made Shammah pass by. And he said, “Neither has the Lord chosen this one.” Thus Jesse made seven of his sons pass before Samuel. And Samuel said to Jesse, “The Lord has not chosen these.”

The passing of seven sons before Samuel emphasizes the completeness of Jesse’s family and the thoroughness of the selection process. The repeated rejection by God highlights that none of Jesse’s elder sons possessed the qualities God desired in a king. This underscores that God’s choice is not based on human qualifications but on divine criteria. This passage reminds us that God’s plans often differ from our expectations. We must trust that He has a specific purpose for each of us, even when it is not immediately apparent.

The rejection of seven sons foreshadows the rejection of Israel’s elders who demanded a king like the other nations (1 Samuel 8:5). St. Gregory of Nyssa comments that “οὐκ ἐν ἀνθρώποις ἡ ἐκλογή, ἀλλ’ ἐν Θεῷ ἡ κρίσις” (Against Eunomius, Book 1) – “The choice is not in men, but the judgment is in God.” This highlights the sovereignty of God in choosing leaders and the limitations of human discernment. He reminds us that our role is to be obedient and faithful and trust in God’s divine will and providence.

1 Samuel 16:11

KJV: And Samuel said unto Jesse, Are here all thy children? And he said, There remaineth yet the youngest, and, behold, he keepeth the sheep. And Samuel said unto Jesse, Send and fetch him: for we will not sit down till he come hither.

NKJV: And Samuel said to Jesse, “Are all the young men here?” Then he said, “There remains yet the youngest, and there he is, keeping the sheep.” And Samuel said to Jesse, “Send and bring him. For we will not sit down till he comes here.”

Jesse’s oversight of David reveals a lack of recognition of David’s potential and importance. David’s role as a shepherd, though seemingly insignificant, was a crucial preparation for his future role as king. The fact that Samuel insisted on waiting for David underscores the prophet’s certainty that the chosen one was yet to appear. This highlights the importance of recognizing the value of every individual, regardless of their social status or apparent abilities. It also shows that God often chooses the humble and overlooked to accomplish His purposes. Even the seemingly insignificant tasks that we perform in our daily lives can be preparations for greater things.

The image of David the shepherd is a potent symbol of Christ, the Good Shepherd. As John Chrysostom wrote, “Ὁ ποιμὴν ὁ καλὸς τὴν ψυχὴν αὐτοῦ τίθησιν ὑπὲρ τῶν προβάτων” (Homilies on John, 59.1) – “The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.” This is echoed in David’s own courage and faithfulness, prefiguring the ultimate sacrifice of Christ. It is an important reminder to care for those within our reach.

1 Samuel 16:12-13

KJV: And he sent, and brought him in. Now he was ruddy, and withal of a beautiful countenance, and goodly to look to. And the Lord said, Arise, anoint him: for this is he. Then Samuel took the horn of oil, and anointed him in the midst of his brethren: and the Spirit of the Lord came upon David from that day forward. So Samuel rose up, and went to Ramah.

NKJV: So he sent and brought him in. Now he was ruddy, with bright eyes, and good-looking. And the Lord said, “Arise, anoint him; for this is the one!” Then Samuel took the horn of oil and anointed him in the midst of his brothers; and the Spirit of the Lord came upon David from that day forward. So Samuel arose and went to Ramah.

David’s physical description – “ruddy, with bright eyes, and good-looking” – suggests a youthful vitality and attractiveness. However, it is God’s affirmation, “Arise, anoint him: for this is he,” that confirms David’s divine selection. The anointing with oil symbolizes the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, empowering David for his future role as king. The phrase “the Spirit of the Lord came upon David from that day forward” indicates a permanent indwelling of the Holy Spirit, marking a new chapter in David’s life. This underscores that God’s anointing is what truly matters. David’s anointing should inspire us to seek God’s presence in our own lives through prayer, worship, and obedience. The Holy Spirit is the source of our strength, wisdom, and guidance.

The anointing of David is a foreshadowing of the anointing of Christ. St. Irenaeus states, “Quia per unctionem Spiritus Sancti, Christum unxit Deus Pater” (Against Heresies, Book III, Ch. 6) – “For through the anointing of the Holy Spirit, God the Father anointed Christ.” Just as David was anointed by Samuel, Christ was anointed by the Holy Spirit, becoming the ultimate King and Messiah. This reflects the Trinitarian theology of the Coptic Orthodox Church, highlighting the unity and distinct roles of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

1 Samuel 16:14-16

KJV: But the Spirit of the Lord departed from Saul, and an evil spirit from the Lord troubled him. And Saul’s servants said unto him, Behold now, an evil spirit from God troubleth thee. Let our lord now command thy servants, which are before thee, to seek out a man, who is a cunning player on an harp: and it shall come to pass, when the evil spirit from God is upon thee, that he shall play with his hand, and thou shalt be well.

NKJV: But the Spirit of the Lord departed from Saul, and a distressing spirit from the Lord troubled him. And Saul’s servants said to him, “Surely, a distressing spirit from God is troubling you. Let our lord now command your servants, who are before you, to seek out a man who is a skillful player on the harp; and it shall be that when the distressing spirit from God is upon you, that he will play the harp with his hand, and you shall be well.”

The departure of the Spirit of the Lord from Saul and the affliction of an evil spirit highlights the consequences of disobedience and rejection of God’s will. This stands in stark contrast to David’s anointing and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. Saul’s troubled state underscores the importance of remaining faithful to God and seeking His guidance. The suggestion to find a skilled harp player reveals an understanding of the soothing and healing power of music. Music can be a powerful tool for spiritual healing and emotional restoration. We must be mindful of the influence of the music we listen to and use it to draw closer to God and to find peace in times of distress. When we turn away from God, we open ourselves to negative influences that can lead to spiritual and emotional turmoil.

This verse also raises questions about the nature of evil spirits and their relationship to God. The phrase “an evil spirit from the Lord” does not imply that God is the author of evil, but rather that God, in His sovereignty, allowed this affliction to come upon Saul as a consequence of his disobedience. This connects to the Orthodox understanding of divine providence, where God allows certain trials to test and refine us, or to bring about a greater good. As St. Basil the Great wrote, “Οὐκ ἔστιν ὁ Θεὸς αἴτιος τῶν κακῶν, ἀλλ’ ἡμᾶς αὐτοὺς αἰτιατέον” (Homilies on Hexaemeron, Homily II, 7) – “God is not the cause of evils, but we must blame ourselves.”

1 Samuel 16:17-18

KJV: And Saul said unto his servants, Provide me now a man that can play well, and bring him to me. Then answered one of the servants, and said, Behold, I have seen a son of Jesse the Bethlehemite, that is cunning in playing, and a mighty valiant man, and a man of war, and prudent in matters, and a comely person, and the Lord is with him.

NKJV: Therefore Saul said to his servants, “Find me a man who can play well, and bring him to me.” Then one of the servants answered and said, “Look, I have seen a son of Jesse the Bethlehemite, who is skillful in playing, a mighty man of valor, a man of war, prudent in speech, and a handsome person; and the Lord is with him.”

Saul’s request for a skilled harp player demonstrates his desperation for relief from his torment. The servant’s description of David highlights his multifaceted abilities: musical talent, courage, military prowess, wisdom, and attractiveness. The statement “the Lord is with him” is the most significant attribute, indicating David’s divine favor and spiritual strength. This demonstrates that God endows His chosen ones with a variety of gifts and talents. We are called to recognize and cultivate our own God-given abilities and use them for His glory. David’s story encourages us to embrace our unique talents and to trust that God will use them to accomplish His purposes in our lives.

David’s attributes prefigure the virtues of Christ. His valor and wisdom, mentioned by the servant, are echoed in the descriptions of Christ’s strength and understanding in Isaiah 11:2. As St. John Damascene wrote, “Δεῖ γὰρ τὸν μέλλοντα βασιλεύειν πᾶσι, καλὸν εἶναι πᾶσι” (Exposition of the Orthodox Faith, Book II, Ch. 12) – “For he who is about to reign over all must be good in all things.” This alludes to the holistic excellence that is characteristic of a true leader, both spiritually and practically.

1 Samuel 16:19-23

KJV: Wherefore Saul sent messengers unto Jesse, and said, Send me David thy son, which is with the sheep. And Jesse took an ass laden with bread, and a bottle of wine, and a kid, and sent them by David his son unto Saul. And David came to Saul, and stood before him: and he loved him greatly; and he became his armourbearer. And Saul sent to Jesse, saying, Let David, I pray thee, stand before me; for he hath found favour in my sight. And it came to pass, when the evil spirit from God was upon Saul, that David took an harp, and played with his hand: so Saul was refreshed, and was well, and the evil spirit departed from him.

NKJV: Therefore Saul sent messengers to Jesse, and said, “Send me your son David, who is with the sheep.” And Jesse took a donkey loaded with bread, a skin of wine, and a young goat, and sent them by David his son to Saul. So David came to Saul and stood before him; and he loved him greatly, and he became his armorbearer. Then Saul sent to Jesse, saying, “Please let David stand before me, for he has found favor in my sight.” And so it was, whenever the spirit from God was upon Saul, that David would take a harp and play it with his hand. Then Saul would become refreshed and well, and the distressing spirit would depart from him.

Saul’s request for David highlights the irony of the situation: the rejected king seeking help from the chosen one. Jesse’s gifts to Saul demonstrate respect and submission to the established authority. David’s role as Saul’s armor-bearer indicates his humility and willingness to serve. The fact that David’s music brought relief to Saul underscores the power of music to soothe the soul and dispel evil influences. This teaches us to use our gifts and talents to serve others, even those who may not recognize our potential or value us. God can use our seemingly small acts of service to bring healing and peace to those around us. We should be faithful in serving others, trusting that God will use our efforts to accomplish His purposes.

David’s service to Saul, despite Saul’s eventual envy and persecution, mirrors Christ’s selfless service to humanity. Christ, though King of Kings, humbled Himself to become a servant. As Philippians 2:7 states, “ἀλλὰ ἑαυτὸν ἐκένωσεν μορφὴν δούλου λαβών” – “but made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a bondservant.” This emphasizes the Orthodox understanding of *kenosis*, or self-emptying, as a key virtue for all Christians. David’s example and Christ’s example shows us how to become servants and instruments of healing to others.

Key Teachings and Reflections

This chapter offers several key teachings and reflections that are applicable to our lives today:

• God’s Choice is Unconventional: God often chooses those who are overlooked or underestimated by the world. We must learn to look beyond outward appearances and recognize the potential in every individual. ✨
• Humility is Essential: David’s humility and willingness to serve, despite his anointing as king, are examples of true leadership. We must cultivate humility in our own lives and use our gifts to serve others. 💡
• The Power of the Holy Spirit: The anointing of the Holy Spirit is what empowers us for service and ministry. We must seek the Holy Spirit’s guidance and empowerment in our lives. 📖
• Music as a Healing Force: David’s music brought relief to Saul, demonstrating the power of music to soothe the soul and dispel negative influences. We must use music to uplift and inspire ourselves and others. 📜
• Trust in God’s Plan: David’s journey from shepherd to king highlights the importance of trusting in God’s plan, even when it is not immediately apparent. We must have faith that God is working all things together for our good. 🕊️
• Divine Providence: God’s hand is at work in our lives, even in difficult times, guiding us towards His ultimate purpose. We must trust that He is in control and that He will never abandon us.

FAQ ❓

Here are some frequently asked questions about 1 Samuel 16:

• Q: Why did God reject Saul?

  A: God rejected Saul because of his disobedience and failure to follow God’s commands. He did not destroy the Amalekites as commanded, and he offered a sacrifice himself, which was the priest’s role. Saul’s actions demonstrated a lack of reverence for God and a disregard for His authority.

• Q: What is the significance of David’s anointing?

  A: David’s anointing symbolized his consecration as the future king of Israel. It marked the beginning of his journey towards fulfilling God’s purpose for his life, empowering him with the Holy Spirit. This anointing foreshadows the anointing of Christ as the ultimate King and Messiah.

• Q: How does this chapter relate to the New Testament?

  A: This chapter relates to the New Testament through the theme of God choosing the humble and unexpected. Jesus Christ, born in Bethlehem, also came from humble beginnings and was ultimately chosen by God to be the Savior of the world. The anointing of David prefigures the anointing of Christ with the Holy Spirit.

• Q: What does this chapter teach us about leadership?

  A: This chapter teaches us that true leadership is not based on outward appearances or worldly qualifications but on the condition of the heart. God looks for humility, faithfulness, and a willingness to serve. True leaders are those who are led by the Holy Spirit and who seek to follow God’s will above their own.

Conclusion

The story of 1 Samuel 16, focusing on “Anointing David: God’s Choice and Our Transformation,” is a powerful reminder that God sees beyond outward appearances and chooses those with a heart devoted to Him. David’s anointing is not just a historical event; it’s a timeless lesson in humility, divine sovereignty, and the transformative power of the Holy Spirit. This chapter calls us to examine our own hearts, seeking God’s will above our own ambitions and trusting that He has a unique plan for each of us. Like David, we are all called to be anointed for a specific purpose, empowered by the Spirit to serve God and our neighbors with love and faithfulness. It is through our humble service and dependence on God that we truly reflect His glory and fulfill our calling.

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1 Samuel 16, David, Anointing, Samuel, Saul, Bethlehem, Holy Spirit, Divine Choice, Humility, Transformation

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Explore 1 Samuel 16: The Anointing of David. Discover profound insights on divine choice, humility, and spiritual transformation. God’s surprising path to leadership.