31 May 2021 – Acts 13:22 (NIV)
Scripture
After removing Saul, he made David their king. God testified concerning him: ‘I have found David son of Jesse, a man after my own heart; he will do everything I want him to do.’
Reflection
David, though not a perfect man, never wavered in his love for the Lord. His devotion to keeping the Mosaic Law, his continual repentance and return to the Lord once he fell astray revealed two things; his own personal failures and his personal dedication to honor God and the Law in spite of his personal failings. It is with this in mind that God calls David a man after His own heart. Despite David’s personal failings; (1) he never showed any signs of temptation to worshipping idols, despite allowing his wife to have a household idol; (2) he continually defended the Lord’s honor in battling Goliath; and (3) his response of humility and repentance after his son Absalom’s insurrection.
What a great relief that this is what God means by calling David “a man after His own heart”. Falling short can often make us feel like we aren’t living a life that honors the Lord. However, in God’s economy, repentance, a broken heart and contrite spirit He does not despise. (Psalm 51:17) We can fall into the trap of believing that through our own strength and will power we can be righteous, but as we know full well it is only by His grace (Jesus sacrifice on the cross) that we are redeemed and made righteous in his sight. God knows we cannot live a perfect life. By the blood of Jesus, all we need to do is declare Jesus as Lord, honor God and contritely turn back to the Lord in repentance when we’ve gone a bit further off the path than intended.
Thoughts for the day
- What does this passage tell you about God or Jesus?
- What do you feel God is telling you through this passage?
- How can you apply this message in your current situation
Prayer
Lord, we ask you to shield all doctors, nurses, first responders and vulnerable people from contracting COVID-19.