God looks on the heart

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.” – 1 Samuel 16.7

Saul’s disobedience and refusal to serve God meant that he was the first and last king of his line. His son Jonathan would have been line to be the next king, but Saul’s refusal to do right meant Jonathan would never have that chance. Ishbosheth, another of Saul’s sons, would attempt to take the kingdom, but would fail.

So God sent Samuel to anoint a new king. God told him to go the the house of Jesse and Samuel would find the king there. Now Jesse had a slew of sons. They were fine strapping lads and there seemed to be no doubt that any of the older brothers would be suitable leaders.

But to Jesse’s amazement brother after brother was rejected. Finally Samuel said ‘are there any more sons?’ Jesse admitted that the youngest was there, but he was out tending the sheep.

‘Go get him,’ Samuel said.

So they brought little David to the room and Samuel confirmed that this was the future king.

The question is pretty clear – why did God choose little David instead of the older brothers?

As Samuel puts it ‘man looks on the outward appearance but God looks in the heart.’ God often does not use the ‘obviously qualified’ to do His work. Paul expands on this when we wrote that God doesn’t often use the wise or the strong or the mighty or the noble to do His work.

God is looking for servants who have the right heart. God isn't looking for the best and the brightest and the strongest – he is looking to the man with the right heart of service for Him.

The truth is that most of us are never going to look like superstars – but God doesn’t need superstars. All He needs are willing hearts.