Characteristics of Young David's

A number of years ago I shared a teaching with students in Master's Commission and in the School of Ministry at First Assembly in Cedar Rapids. I was on staff there from August of 1989 to August of 2009.

The study was called, "Ten Characteristics of Young David's." It encompassed ten character traits from David's life. I believe the Holy Spirit used these ten things and our time together to challenge the young people I was working with at that time. Many of them have gone on to be great shepherds in their own right and serve the Lord as faithful servants. I'm so proud of them!

Since that time I've discovered that "young" is not chronological but is a matter of the heart and attitude within us.

I've met many "young" people that are old. They are relying upon their past; their heritage; their education; and their own abilities instead of learning to trust God. (Please know there is nothing wrong with youth, heritage, education or abilities...but these things just won't cut it in and of themselves. We ALL need the power of God pulsating through our lives on a daily basis.

I know many people in their 50's, 60's, 70's and beyond that are young at heart; desire to God do a new thing; and are more than ready to forget the former things and step into the new things God has for His Church.

I pray that these ten characteristics from David's life will challenge each of us to stay "young in Him." May God help each of us follow the principles and practices of these characteristics and become men and women after God's own heart! May the throne and heart of David live on in the hearts and actions of men and women until the end of time.

The first characteristic of Young David is that he was faithful.

David was the youngest son of Jesse and assigned the task of watching his father's sheep. This he did while his brothers were being looked over by the prophet Samuel to see if they were "anointable" to be the next king (1 Samuel 16). And David was also watching the sheep while his brothers were off fighting the Philistines.

In 1 Samuel 17:12-15, we find that David was relegated to be the supply convoy between his father and his older brothers. All the while David stayed faithful to the task his father gave him to do, even in the face of taunting from his older siblings.

Here's the take away....if David had not been a faithful shepherd and faithful son and brother, he never would have been a faithful King to the people of Israel or the sheep of God's pasture.

It may not have been very challenging, although there was a lion and a bear; and it may not have been very glamorous. And we know that shepherds did not always have the best of reputations among the Jews, but David remained faithful and God took note of his heart.

Another thing about watching the sheep......apparently David put the time to good use. He became proficient with his sling; he learned to play the harp; and he wrote a lot of songs (Psalms) that were used in worship for generations to come, including our generation.

It's amazing what can happen when we stay faithful to the things God gives us to do. Kind of reminds me of the Parable of the Talents in Matthew 25.

"Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your Master's happiness!"

Always in Pursuit!