JUNE 19 | PSALM 78:67-72

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DAILY READING

Psalm 78:67-72

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REFLECTION

Many are The Called, Few are The Chosen

by Judy Webb

He chose David his servant

    and took him from the sheep pens;

from tending the sheep he brought him

    to be the shepherd of his people Jacob,

    of Israel his inheritance.

And David shepherded them with integrity of heart;

    with skillful hands he led them. (vv 70-72)

God had his choice of the 12 tribes of Israel, and he chose Judah. He had the choice of any place on earth for his sacred Mountain, and he chose Mt. Zion. He had the pick of all men on earth to be His servant, and He chose David. David, a man after God’s own heart. A sinful man, yet God chose Him to lead His nation Israel.

"...and the Lord said, You will shepherd my people Israel, and you will become their ruler." 2 Samuel 4:2)

Doesn’t that give you hope? We, also sinful people, can be used by God for His good purposes, even today. Maybe, especially today! When we are willing, we can be used for good in a world of evil.

A study of David will reveal his shortcomings, his difficulties, and struggles. But we know from our own lives that these problems and obstacles only make us stronger and more faithful when we go through them with Jesus. When we realize how often the hard times make us stronger, it gives us a new vision and provides faith we never could obtain if everything went smoothly. Climbing the hills of desperation and navigating the valleys of peril is where we grow in character and perseverance. Our spiritual muscles are developed. Leaders are born during times of wandering, doubt and pain. So, we either step up or get trampled.

When we feel that all is lost and things will never improve – that is the point when we call out to Jesus, ask him to calm the storm of life right now, and then we submit to our calling.

David’s early years as a shepherd were a training ground for his future; for the responsibility God had in store for him. When he was ready, God took him from caring for sheep to caring for Israel. So, don’t treat your present situation lightly. It might be God’s training ground for your future.

Is your life seemingly out of control, hopeless? Never. God has a purpose and when we seek that purpose, pray for the guidance of Holy Spirit, and submit to his plan for our lives, a change happens.

PRAYER

Dear Jesus, give us eyes to see you in all our struggles. Give us faith to climb the mountains in our path. Lord reveal the way we are to go, the plans you have for us and give us the courage to pursue it. Amen.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

JUDY WEBB

I have been a member of UALC for 26 years and have been writing devotions for this site for about 17 of them. Writing is my passion. As retired staff I still love everything about UALC and its members including my small group.

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