David, A Man after God’s Own Heart
After removing Saul, he made David their king. God testified concerning him: 'I have found David son of Jesse, a man after my own heart; he will do everything I want him to do.'
Acts 13:22
God said in the above scripture that David was a man after his own heart because he strived to always obey the Lord. Other people in the Bible obeyed the Lord, but only David was identified as a man after God’s own heart. Then Peter began to speak: “I now realize how true it is that God does not show favoritism (Acts 10:35). What was it about David that caused God to see him as a man after his own heart?
The first time we read about David was when he fought Goliath, But David said to the Philistine, “You come against me with a dagger, spear, and sword, but I come against you in the name of the Lord of Hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied. This day the Lord will deliver you into my hand (1 Samuel 17:45-46). David was a young boy at this time and he depended on the Lord for victory over Goliath. All through David’s life he went to the Lord before battle asking for guidance and he glorified God after the victory.
David prayed, releasing his thoughts and emotions to the Lord, but he always praised and thanked the Lord. Save me, O God, for the waters have come up to my neck. I sink in the miry depths, in where there is no foothold (Psalm 69:1-2). In this psalm David reveals his desperate situation to God and pleads for help. Answer me, Lord, out of the goodness of your love; in your great mercy turn to me. (Psalm 69:16). David went to God and revealed his heart to him, showing his faith and dependence on the Lord. I will praise God’s name in song and glorify him with thanksgiving (Psalm 69:30).
David had a heart for God. He trusted God, depended on him, and had a close relationship with him. David was humble and his strength and guidance came from God. He knew the blessings in life came from God and he was aware of his sin and the consequences. David had a repentant heart and sought forgiveness with Godly sorrow. I have sinned against the Lord. (2 Samuel 12:13). In Psalm 51 David reveals a repentant heart for his sin with Bathsheba.
If we are to be a person after God’s own heart we must have the faith that always seeks to be obedient. We must reveal our hearts to God in every situation, and depend on him. David reveals the relationship that is pleasing to the Lord; a loving relationship that trusts him completely.
Today, be secure and humble, and depend on the Lord for guidance and wisdom. Walk in a close relationship with the Lord, communing with him and revealing whatever is on your heart. Praise and thank the Lord, recognizing his love and forgiveness, and note the comfort and peace you receive.
Let’s Pray: Lord, thank you for your perfect love and guidance. Guide me in the Spirit to be obedient to your will today, being a light for Christ. I pray that the light will take away any darkness I encounter today. In Jesus’ name, Amen