The Eighth Man

This version of 1 Sam. 16:11 comes from "The Message:"

　
"Then he asked Jesse, "Is this it? Are there no more sons?"

"Well, yes, there’s the runt. But he’s out tending the sheep."

Samuel ordered Jesse, "Go get him. We’re not moving from this spot until he’s here."
How many times and in how many ways does God have to tell us that He likes the leftovers; the discards?

Some have speculated, and I think they are probably right, the reason David wasn't called to the meeting is because he was the product of an adulterous relationship and Jesse was ashamed of him.

Regardless, David wasn't considered or called by Jesse but he was by God. Thankfully, Samuel had learned early on in his life to listen to God, not man.

I am so glad our Father doesn't look at appearances, but at hearts. We are so often fooled by the outward stuff but God isn't. He sees motives and that makes all the difference in the world.

Two men can respond to the call to ministry and both be qualified but one can be doing it for selfish reasons the other because the call of God is on his life. Both can appear dedicated and sincere but one will crumble under the crush of ministry or crush others under his need for acceptance and approval while the other will shepherd because he understands the responsibility and accepts it.

One man will have the charisma and charm but will fail. The other may not be as flashy but will remain steady and faithful. I would rather be that man and would rather see that man leading a church than the former.

God wasn't fooled by the seven sons of Jesse who later failed miserably along with Saul under the test of Goliath's challenges. Thankfully there was the eighth man, overlooked by man but seen by God.