In our exploration of calling in the ministry, we turn to the biblical account of David’s anointing as king, a profound example of God’s selection and the characteristics He values in those He calls to serve Him. This event is found in 1 Samuel 16:1-13 and sheds light on the divine assignment and qualities God looks for in His chosen servants.
Samuel’s Divine Assignment
1 Samuel 16:1-3 outlines the divine assignment given to the prophet Samuel by God. Samuel is tasked with anointing a new king to replace Saul, whom God has rejected due to disobedience. This assignment is significant because it illustrates the need to follow God’s instructions, even when dealing with the removal of previously anointed leaders.
Samuel’s initial struggle with God’s decision to replace Saul serves as a reminder that we, too, may find it challenging to accept changes in leadership, especially when it involves individuals we once revered. However, God’s choices are final, and mourning over His decisions serves no purpose. This text highlights the importance of obeying God’s instructions wholeheartedly and not letting personal feelings or fears hinder His divine assignment.
“God’s choices are final, and mourning over His decisions serves no purpose.”
Samuel’s Divine Action
In 1 Samuel 16:4-5, Samuel takes action as he proceeds to Bethlehem. He is instructed to organize a sacrifice and invite Jesse and his family to participate. This action emphasizes the significance of worship in ministry and how God’s anointing often occurs in the context of worship and devotion.
Samuel’s actions serve as a reminder that ministry should be rooted in a spirit of worship, and the anointing of God is closely associated with the worship experience. This illustrates the need to maintain a sacred approach to ministry, recognizing that the Lord does His most profound work in the hearts of His people during moments of worship.
“Ministry should be rooted in a spirit of worship”
Samuel’s Divine Approach
Samuel’s approach in 1 Samuel 16:4-5 is marked by peace, sanctification, and consecration. He reassures the elders of Bethlehem that his visit is peaceful and invites them to join in the worship and sacrifice. Samuel’s approach underscores the importance of approaching ministry with integrity and care.
In ministry, it is crucial to create an atmosphere of sanctification and consecration, where participants can experience the presence of God. This approach not only fosters an environment for God to move but also serves as a model for conducting ministry with reverence and honor.
“Samuel’s approach underscores the importance of approaching ministry with integrity and care”
The Church as a Source of Spiritual Growth
The Church provides a nurturing environment for spiritual growth, accountability, and encouragement.
Community and Support:
Being part of a Church community allows us to grow in our faith, receive support in times of need, and provide that support to others. We are meant to bear one another’s burdens, pray for each other, and sharpen each other’s faith.
Worship and Spiritual Disciplines:
Through the Church, we engage in collective worship, prayer, and the study of God’s Word. These spiritual disciplines cultivate our relationship with God and deepen our understanding of His will for our lives.
“Being part of a Church Community Helps us to grow”
Samuel’s Divine Assessment
As Samuel encounters Jesse’s sons in 1 Samuel 16:6-10, he initially misjudges them based on their outward appearances. God reminds Samuel that He does not see as man sees and emphasizes the significance of the heart over physical attributes.
This divine assessment highlights the need to evaluate individuals for ministry based on their character and heart, rather than superficial characteristics. God’s standards for choosing servants often differ from human standards, and recognizing this is vital in the process of calling individuals to serve in the ministry.
The story of David’s anointing as king is a powerful example of divine calling in the ministry. It emphasizes the importance of following God’s instructions in carrying out His divine assignments, conducting ministry in the context of worship, approaching ministry with sanctification and consecration, and assessing individuals for ministry based on their heart and character.
As we reflect on this account, we should be encouraged to seek and recognize God’s calling in our lives and the lives of others, understanding that His choices are not based on outward appearances but on the condition of the heart. God continues to call and anoint individuals for various ministries, and it is our responsibility to discern His will and follow His divine assignments with humility and obedience.
By Rev. Dr. Angulus Wilson
