Lessons from King David: Man after God’s own heart

David was far from perfect. He had his flaws and weaknesses. But, he also had his strengths and strong points.

David is described as a man after God’s own heart

One of his strengths was his faith in the Lord.

The Lord tells Saul, “But now thy kingdom shall not continue: the Lord hath sought him a man after his own heart, and the Lord hath commanded him to be captain over his people, because thou hast not kept that which the Lord commanded thee.” {1 Samuel 13:14}

That man was David.

The Lord tells 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.” {1 Samuel 16:7}

David made his fair share of mistakes, but he was not afraid to confess his sins and transgressions. Remember, when Nathan confronted him about Bathsheba, he broke down crying and confessed before the Lord.

David was a poet and musician

David kept his eyes focused on the Lord and was not afraid to turn to the Lord for help in times of trouble. Often, it was the Lord alone that sustained him through difficult times.

When David was old and close to dying, he called Solomon to him. His words to Solomon show where his heart lay.

“And you, Solomon my son, get to know well your father’s God; serve him with a whole heart and eager mind, for God examines every heart and sees through every motive. If you seek him, he’ll make sure you find him, but if you abandon him, he’ll leave you for good. Look sharp now! God has chosen you to build his holy house. Be brave, determined! And do it!” {1 Chronicles 28:9-10}

David was a shepherd boy. He would hone his musical skills and how to wield a sling shot while in the fields.

David reminded his son to serve God with all of his heart and soul. He reminded Solomon that the Lord sees and knows every heart and motive. Doesn’t that echo the words of the Lord, when he sent Samuel to anoint David as the next king.

David did not keep his faith quiet or hidden. He shared it with all of the Israelites.

“David blessed God in full view of the entire congregation:

Blessed are you, God of Israel, our father
from of old and forever…
You hold strength and power in the palm of your hand
to build up and strengthen all.
And here we are, O God, our God, giving thanks to you,
praising your splendid Name.” {1 Chronicles 29:10-13}

His songs were sung throughout the land

David revered the Lord and held him in great esteem. He reminded the Israelites of how wonderful the Lord was and why the Lord should be praised.

Paul even reminded us in the New Testament that the Lord said “‘I have found David the son of Jesse to be a man after my heart, who will accomplish everything I want him to do.’” {Acts 13:22}

When you stand before the Lord, will he say “this is a man after my heart”? Deep down what do your actions and motives show?
Are you a man or woman who seeks God with all of your heart?

 

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**Pictures from FreeBiblesImages.org

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