Again, Jesse made seven of his sons to pass before Samuel. And Samuel said unto Jesse, The LORD hath not chosen these. — 1 Samuel 16:10
If you are like me, you can think of many times in life that perhaps you weren’t the first choice. I think back to when I was in school and we would pick teams on the playground. So many times there were people who were not the first choice. Or maybe it was for a promotion at work. Maybe you and another coworker were ready, but you weren’t the first choice.
Most everyone has this experience in their life where they are not the first choice in something. It can be difficult to accept not being the first choice. Perhaps there are feelings of not being wanted. Did you ever think to yourself, “Since they didn’t pick me they obviously don’t care!” It isn’t an uncommon feeling at all.
Our human desire wants to be accepted and wanted by those around us. I can only imagine the feelings among all of Jesse’s sons as they were put before Samuel. Samuel thought Eliab was great, but God said it isn’t him. More of the family passed by. Again, none of them were chosen. Had Samuel went with his first choice, he would have missed what God wanted.
Sometimes, I wonder if all the sons were standing around looking at each other and trying to decide what was wrong with the other. I have no doubt that all of them wanted to be chosen. What an amazing opportunity, but that was not God’s plan and purpose for their lives.
While Jesse’s other sons were not chosen for the purpose of being King, David was. Samuel continued in his search and soon, David arrived. Samuel went through all the options, but he trusted God in the process.
Don’t be discouraged because your first choice isn’t working out. It certainly doesn’t mean God does not love you or is finished working in your life. Instead, trust God and follow Him. He has a purpose and plan that will lead you to the right choice. You just have to trust Him.
Across the world, there are Christians that need encouragement and strength that only God’s word can provide. We are focused on helping Christians find encouragement, develop stronger relationships with God, and help non-Christians come to accept Jesus Christ as Savior. As a non-profit ministry, Another Well Ministries relies on donations to continue our work. You can find out more about us and ways to support us here.
If you enjoy our devotionals, please consider subscribing to receive them daily.