The Anointing of David, Christ, and the Anointing in Today's Church

1. Human Judgment vs. Divine Perspective — 1 Samuel 16:6–7

"Surely the LORD's anointed is before Him." But the LORD said… "Look not on his countenance, or on the height of his stature… for the LORD seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the LORD looketh on the heart." — 1 Samuel 16:6–7

Samuel sees Eliab's impressive appearance and assumes he must be God's choice. But God corrects him, reminding us that His criteria are different — He looks at the heart, not the outward form.

See also: Isaiah 53:2–3 (Jesus had "no beauty that we should desire Him"); John 7:24 ("Judge not according to the appearance, but judge righteous judgment.")

Life Application: Let us examine our own hearts and the way we see others. Are we quick to judge by looks, status, or achievements? God calls us to value character and faithfulness above all.

2. The Rejection of the Obvious Choices — 1 Samuel 16:8–10

"Jesse made seven of his sons to pass before Samuel. And Samuel said… 'The LORD hath not chosen these.'" — 1 Samuel 16:10

Each of Jesse's sons passes before Samuel, but none are chosen. God's choice often surprises us — He sees what no one else sees.

See also: 1 Corinthians 1:27 ("God has chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise…"); Acts 10:34 ("God shows no partiality…")

Life Application: Don't be discouraged if you are overlooked or underestimated. God's plans for you are not limited by human expectations. Trust His timing and His choice.

3. The Unlikely Candidate: David, the Shepherd Boy — 1 Samuel 16:11–12

"There remaineth yet the youngest, and, behold, he keepeth the sheep." …And the LORD said, "Arise, anoint him: for this is he." — 1 Samuel 16:11–12

David, the youngest and least likely, is out caring for sheep. Yet God sees his heart — his faithfulness in the small things — and chooses him for greatness.

Picturing Jesus:

Like David, Jesus was humble and overlooked by many, yet chosen by God. Jesus called Himself the Good Shepherd (John 10:11), caring for His flock.

See also: Psalm 78:70–72 (God chose David from the sheepfolds); Philippians 2:7–9 (Jesus "made Himself of no reputation…")

Life Application: Be faithful where you are, even if it seems insignificant. God sees your heart and your service. He can call you from obscurity to purpose at any time.

4. The Anointing and Empowerment — 1 Samuel 16:13

"Samuel took the horn of oil, and anointed him… And the Spirit of the LORD came upon David from that day forward." — 1 Samuel 16:13

David is anointed in the presence of his brothers, and the Spirit of God empowers him for his calling. This foreshadows Christ, the Anointed One ("Messiah"), filled with the Spirit.

See also: Luke 4:18 ("The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me, because He has anointed Me…"); Acts 10:38 (God anointed Jesus with the Holy Spirit and power)

Life Application: God's calling comes with His empowerment. When He calls you, He equips you. Seek the Holy Spirit's presence in your life for every task.