So, he asked Jesse, “Are these all the sons you have?” “There is still the youngest,” Jesse answered. “He is tending the sheep.”
(1 Samuel 16:1)
David, son of Jesse, was king over all Israel. He ruled over Israel forty years— seven in Hebron and thirty-three in Jerusalem. He died at a good old age, having enjoyed long life, wealth and honor. His son Solomon succeeded him as king.
(1 Chronicles 29:26-28)
King David is a great example of what God can do in the life of a poor young man unknown and despised by his own family and transform him into the rich conquering recognized king known as the man after God’s own heart. And what made this change possible?
First of all, we have to understand it didn’t happen overnight. It demanded time, perseverance, patience, and obedience. David was anointed king in 1 Samuel 16:11 when Saul was still the official king; however, David was made king over Judah only in 2 Samuel 2:4, around 15 years later, and over all Israel in 2 Samuel 5:3, around 23 years later. If you think your victory is taking long, learn with David to wait. Even to be blessed we’ve got to be prepared to be strong and balanced enough to succeed. He was in God’s training ground learning to be a king. Wait patiently for the Lord!
Secondly, although the circumstances do not show any evidence of fulfillment of your dream, when God sees you doing what you can, believing when there’s no sign, thanking him when you’re weak, taking steps of faith when you’re uncomfortable, God will give you strength that goes beyond your natural ability. He’ll help you do what you couldn’t do on your own. Despite all the hardships and relentless persecution, David was kept alive. So, God’s projects had not yet been fulfilled in his life. Trust the Lord!
Thirdly, 1 Samuel 16:18 says that “One of the servants answered, “I have seen a son of Jesse of Bethlehem who knows how to play the lyre. He is a brave man and a warrior. He speaks well and is a fine-looking man. And the LORD is with him.” Men may despise your talents, but God doesn’t. And He uses all that in your favor. Do your part and God is certainly going to do His. Lord, I give you all I have and all I am!
Finally, David used to recognize when he was wrong, apologize and change attitudes to please God. He knew obeying is better than sacrificing. David knew that obeying God, He would keep God’s presence close to him, and this is all he wanted. The consequence was that the LORD was with David wherever he went to. Recognize His majesty and divinity!
I encourage you to seek the Lord and wait for Him to answer your prayers. It’s always worth doing it, no matter how long it takes. He is faithful to fulfill all His promises in your life.
Prayer: Dear Lord, I want to stay encouraged. I know my victory is on the way. I believe I’m closer than I think. It’s going to happen sooner than it looks. There may be no sign of things improving, everything may look the same, but I want to be ready because you’re God full of surprises. More than looking forward for things to happen in my life, I want to be full of your presence and enjoy all the way through the victory with you by my side. In Jesus’ name, amen.
