A MAN AFTER GOD'S OWN HEART

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Today’s Reading:

Psalm 27

“…. I have found David the son of Jesse, a man after mine own heart, which shall fulfil all my will.” (Acts.13:22c)

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The passage for our consideration today is one of the several Psalms written by David, who was assured of God's protection during one of his numerous ordeals, challenging situation and/or circumstances which all human beings cannot avoid as long as we are in the land of the living though in various degrees.

Let us look at a few of the qualities about David's life who later became a king of Israel:

1. David saved the armies of Israel; he made his first appearance when he was anointed by prophet Samuel. In 1Samuel17, it was noted before killing Goliath from Garth in the presence of King Saul that he has been able to kill both the lion and the bear which attacked the family flock (1Samuel 17:34-37).

2. David was also able to drive out an evil spirit from King Saul when God afflicted him with the spirit of insanity with praise and worship instruments( 1Samuel 18:10 and 1Samuel 19:9).

3. David was a well-mannered young man( 1Samuel 18:5,14,30)

4. David in the face of a confusing situation was even afraid for his own life and still remoulded the lives of about 400 men( 1Samuel 22:1-2).

5. David always seek God's counsel and leading in all the wars he fought and won( 1Samuel 23:2,4,9;1 Samuel 30:7-8; 2Samuel 5:9).

Again, David in 1Samuel 22:22-23 was so sure of God's abiding presence that he was even asking someone else whose life was at risk to come along with him to enjoy God's protection. Psalm 27:3-4 " Though a host should encamp against me, my heart shall not fear: though war arise against me, in this will I be confident.

One thing have I desired of the Lord, that will I seek after; that I may dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life... Search your heart today, how much of God do you desire?

God's conversation with Samuel as recorded in Acts 13:22 and 1Samuel13:14 reminds one of a similar conversation between God and Satan in Job 1:8. Can God vouch for you? How much of God's protective power do you enjoy? Little wonder Solomon the son of David gave an offering that made God come to ask him to make his request and he got more than he demanded.

From whom are you seeking protection and confidence? Raise your eyes to God's hills from there comes your help. Begin to worship God who has all things.

OLUWOLE OTEMADE

Prayer:

1. Lord, I thank you for the lesson spelt out through the study today, in Jesus name.

2. Father, thank you for another opportunity to make me realise the harm and sorrow I have caused myself for not bringing everything to you in prayer, in Jesus name.

3. Daddy, I am back, help me and show me the way into your secret place, hide me under your shadow, help me to be patient, give me a heart of obedience even when I hear contrary instruction to mine from you.

4. Daddy by the testimonies and assuring words from the man after your own heart, instruct me and make me listen, deliver me from the mouth of the lion and paws of the bears seeking to steal, to kill and to destroy your divine purpose for my life, in Jesus name.