Psalms 78:70 – “He chose David his servant and took him from the sheep pens.”
An Extended Explanation of the Verse
Psalm 78:70 tells us about God’s decision to choose David, a humble shepherd, to be the leader of His people. David was not from a royal family or a position of power; he was a shepherd, working in the fields and caring for his father’s sheep. Yet, God saw David’s heart and chose him to become king over Israel. This verse highlights God’s tendency to select those who might seem unlikely by human standards but who have qualities He values, such as humility, faith, and a servant’s heart. By choosing David from the sheep pens, God shows that He values character over status.
Historical Context
David’s journey from shepherd to king is one of the most inspiring stories in the Bible. As the youngest son of Jesse, David was not seen as a likely candidate for kingship. While his older brothers were presented to the prophet Samuel, David was overlooked and left tending the sheep. However, God directed Samuel to anoint David, saying, “The Lord does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart” (1 Samuel 16:7). David went on to become Israel’s greatest king, uniting the tribes and establishing Jerusalem as the nation’s capital. He was known as a “man after God’s own heart” (Acts 13:22) and would become a central figure in God’s redemptive plan.
Theological Implications
Psalm 78:70 reflects the idea that God chooses and uses people based on their hearts, not their outward qualifications. This verse is a reminder that God sees value in those whom the world might overlook. David was just a shepherd, but God chose him for a mighty purpose. This shows that God’s calling doesn’t rely on status, family background, or human strength; it’s about a willing and humble heart. David’s life shows us that God calls people from all walks of life to accomplish His purposes, proving that His strength is made perfect in our weakness. This verse encourages us to see ourselves and others as God does, with potential for His work regardless of worldly position.
Literary Analysis
In Psalm 78, the psalmist recounts Israel’s history, focusing on how God has guided and chosen leaders for His people. The phrase “took him from the sheep pens” is powerful, emphasizing David’s humble beginnings. This choice of language highlights God’s preference for raising up leaders who understand humility and service, rather than those who seek power for its own sake. The contrast between the “sheep pens” and the eventual throne of Israel shows the dramatic shift that happens when God calls someone to His purpose. The psalmist uses this phrase to remind Israel that God’s choice of David was intentional and reflects God’s values.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- 1 Samuel 16:7 – “The Lord does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.” This verse reminds us that God chose David because of his heart, not his appearance or status.
- 2 Samuel 7:8 – “Now then, tell my servant David, ‘This is what the Lord Almighty says: I took you from the pasture, from tending the flock, and appointed you ruler over my people Israel.’” This verse reflects God’s hand in choosing David and raising him to kingship.
- Acts 13:22 – “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.’” This verse highlights David’s unique relationship with God and his faithful heart.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, Psalm 78:70 serves as a reminder that God can use anyone, regardless of their background, for His purposes. David’s story encourages us not to be discouraged by humble beginnings or by feeling unqualified for the things God calls us to. This verse invites us to see our own lives as valuable in God’s sight and to trust that He has a purpose for us, just as He did for David. It also challenges us to look at others through God’s eyes, valuing character and humility over status or appearance. This verse encourages believers to focus on cultivating a heart that is ready and willing to follow God’s leading.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
Psalm 78:70 reveals God’s love in His choice to call someone from humble circumstances to do great things. God’s love doesn’t depend on social status, power, or wealth; instead, He looks for a willing and faithful heart. By choosing David, God demonstrated that His love values each person individually and personally. God’s love sees beyond our shortcomings and the limitations that others might place on us, calling us to a life of purpose and significance in His kingdom. David’s life shows us that God’s love includes His guidance, protection, and faithfulness, empowering us to do things we might never have imagined.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
David’s story foreshadows the coming of Jesus, who would also come from humble beginnings. Just as God chose David from the sheep pens, Jesus was born in a stable and grew up in Nazareth, a place of no great reputation. Yet Jesus was God’s chosen Savior, the “Son of David,” who would fulfill the promise of a kingdom that would never end. Jesus, like David, was a shepherd—leading, protecting, and guiding His people. In John 10:11, Jesus describes Himself as the “good shepherd,” connecting His mission to the role of caring for God’s people. Jesus is the ultimate fulfillment of God’s plan to lead His people, coming from humility to bring salvation and establishing a kingdom of grace.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does David’s story encourage you when you feel unqualified or overlooked?
- In what ways can you cultivate a heart that is humble and ready to follow God’s leading?
- How does understanding God’s focus on character over status change the way you view yourself and others?
- How does Jesus’ life as a humble servant-leader reflect God’s love and purpose for His people?
- What steps can you take to trust in God’s calling, even if it doesn’t match your expectations?
Psalm 78:70 reminds us that God chooses people based on their hearts and calls them to His purposes regardless of worldly status. David’s life encourages us to trust in God’s ability to use us, no matter where we come from. Through Jesus, we see the fulfillment of God’s plan to bring salvation through humble means, showing that true greatness is found in a heart devoted to God. This verse invites us to embrace God’s calling with faith and humility, knowing that He is the one who equips and empowers us for His purposes.