In the same way all seven of Jesse's sons were presented to Samuel. But Samuel said to Jesse, "The Lord has not chosen any of these." Then Samuel asked, "Are these all the sons you have?" "There is still the youngest," Jesse replied. "But he's out in the fields watching the sheep." "Send for him at once," Samuel said. So Jesse sent for him. And the Lord said, "This is the one; anoint him." (1 Samuel 16:10-11,12)
In 1 Samuel, Saul, the king of Israel, has repeatedly dishonored the Lord. The Lord tells Samuel that He has rejected Saul as king. God has chosen a new king, one of Jesse's sons. God tells Samuel to go to Jesse's house and He will show him which of Jesse's sons He has chosen to be the next king of Israel. When Samuel arrives, he meets Jesse's seven oldest sons first. God had not chosen any of them, so Samuel asks Jesse if he has any other sons. Jesse tells him that David, the youngest is out in the fields tending the sheep. Samuel asks Jesse to send for David immediately. When David arrives, God tells Samuel that he is the one He has chosen to be the next king of Israel.
I love this story because as moms, we are busy shepherding our own little flock. Sometimes our daily tasks can seem menial and we can feel forgotten, but God has not forgotten us. He knows exactly where we are and He wants us to be diligent in the work He has given us in this season of life. Caring for, nurturing, protecting, providing for and training our children is a huge privilege and responsibility. We need to stay focused on the task at hand. We can rest in the knowledge that He will send for us when He is ready to move us from where we are or add to our responsibilities.
Later in 1 Samuel, when David says he will fight Goliath, Saul tells him there is no way that he can even compete against the giant. David tells Saul there is nothing to worry about because he has been taking care of his father's sheep. He has fought and killed many wild animals in order to protect his flock. He tells Saul that the Lord has proved Himself to be faithful by saving him from lions and bears and will also save him from Goliath.
God used the time David spent caring for the sheep to prepare him for future works he had planned for him. I believe it is the same for us moms. As we faithfully tend the sheep God has entrusted to us, God will grow us and prepare us for what else He wants to do through us. As we lean on Him and trust Him in this season, we will experience His faithfulness and will be able to walk confidently in whatever He calls us to in the future.
Lord, thank you that you never forget us. Thank you for the work you have given to us in this precious season of life. May we be diligent in it. May we lean on you and come to experience your faithfulness. Use this time to grow us in Christ-like character and prepare us for whatever lies ahead.
