When the appointed time had come, a prophet went forth to find the new king. To him, it was told, “man may look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart”.
Many years ago, there lived a young shepherd boy. He was ruddy yet handsome, with beautiful eyes and a skilful musician known for his worship. With time he grew to become a man of valor and a man of war, a man of good presence who was also prudent in speech. He knew the value of true friendship and the humbling commitment of servant-hood. He was by no means perfect, but he had a heart after God. That boy was Jesse’s son David. (excerpts from 1 Sam 16 – 18)
We all know the story of David’s life. It was filled with many great victories – killing bears and lions, even defeating giants and becoming a king of Israel. Sadly, David was also a man that made some bad choices that resulted in great sin. But still, God loved him. As a favored yet flawed king, David formed part of God’s plan for Israel. He was even in the lineage of Jesus Christ.
The story of David is beautiful, exciting and tragic. However, when I look at my son, I think of David. You see, I believe I am raising a little man of God. I know that his life will not be perfect, and therefore I pray.
I pray that as with David, the Spirit of the Lord will rush upon my son and that he will walk with the Lord. I pray that my son will grow to be a passionate worshiper and a strong leader, a humble servant and a good friend. Ultimately, I pray that he will become a man after God’s own heart, just as David was. And that others may look at my son and say, “The Lord is with him”.
Then I pray that as his parents, my husband and I will have the wisdom to raise him with conviction, guide him in all truth, and continually lead him closer to Christ.