God’s Spirit

1 Samuel 16:8-13

“8 Then Jesse called Abinadab and had him pass in front of Samuel. But Samuel said, “The Lord has not chosen this one either.” 9 Jesse then had Shammah pass by, but Samuel said, “Nor has the Lord chosen this one.” 10 Jesse had seven of his sons pass before Samuel, but Samuel said to him, “The Lord has not chosen these.” 11 So he asked Jesse, “Are these all the sons you have?”“There is still the youngest,” Jesse answered. “He is tending the sheep.” Samuel said, “Send for him; we will not sit down until he arrives.”12 So he sent for him and had him brought in. He was glowing with health and had a fine appearance and handsome features. Then the Lord said, “Rise and anoint him; this is the one.” 13 So Samuel took the horn of oil and anointed him in the presence of his brothers, and from that day on the Spirit of the Lord came powerfully upon David. Samuel then went to Ramah.”

David was anointed by the prophet Samuel as a youth (approx. 15 years old) to be the future king of Israel.  He was tending his family’s sheep when he was called in from the fields.  His life as the youngest child of seven was never the same.

Immediately after his anointing, David was indwelled by the Holy Spirit and began a lifelong walk with God that was to take him into the court of Saul and to the throne of Israel where he became the nation’s greatest king.

God’s Holy Spirit dwells in each believer. We, like David, are walking with God; in relationship with God; led by the Holy Spirit deeper into God’s truth.  In order for this relationship to grow we must remain open to the leading and guidance of the Holy Spirit.  We do this through the practice of prayer, study of scripture, worship, service to others, self-sacrifice and the practice of fellowship.

God dwells within each believer. 

And our lives are never the same.

May the love of Christ be with you,

Rev. Eric Lanier (Retired)