While You're Waiting... to be Used

The Lord chose David His servant, and took him from the sheepfolds; from following the ewes that had young He brought him, to shepherd … His people, and … His inheritance. So he shepherded them according to the integrity of his heart, and guided them by the skillfulness of his hands. Psalm 78:70-72 King David was one of the most gifted leaders that world has ever known. Over the course of his reign he was known for his bravery, his battle strategy, and for unifying the kingdom with his diplomatic skill. But as we look back to his younger years, we find that his leadership skills and character were shaped during years of obscurity on the hillsides tending sheep. During those seemingly empty years, how many times did David wonder if his life would ever amount to anything? Day after day and night after night he paid attention to the task before him. He led the sheep to better pasture and fresh water, and he killed and lion and a bear that attacked them. Alone with his thoughts he prayed, reflected, and developed literary skills as he wrote his prayers to God. When the time came for David to act to rescue Israel from Goliath and the Philistines, his heart was strong and his hands had been trained. He was ready. Some of us find ourselves living and serving in obscurity. Many of our friends and colleagues have passed us up, and we’re tempted to feel abandoned and quit trying. David’s example helps us to stay in the game, and to sharpen our skills and strengthen our hearts so we’re ready when the time comes to act. Are you ready? Will you be ready? What are some things you can do to sharpen your skills and strengthen your heart right now. Please comment below or email me directly at curtis.songer@gmail.com