In what way could David be regarded as a man after God’s own heart? (Part 1) By Babatunde Olugboji
To comprehend why David was regarded as a man after God’s own heart, it is essential to examine the characteristics that qualified him for such a distinguished title. In the book of Acts, Paul conveys God’s sentiments regarding King David: “After removing Saul, he made David their king. He 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’” (Acts 13:22).
The explanation for why David was deemed a man after God’s own heart is clearly articulated in this verse: David complied with all that God desired of him. A pertinent question arises: how could God still refer to David as a man after His own heart despite David’s grave sins, which included adultery and murder?
We gain significant insight into David’s character through the book of Psalms, where he openly shared his life for all to scrutinize. David’s existence was a blend of triumphs and setbacks, and the biblical narrative emphasizes that he was not without flaws. However, what distinguished David from others was his heart’s orientation towards God. He possessed a profound yearning to adhere to God’s will and fulfill ‘everything’ that God desired of him. He was indeed a man after God’s own heart.
Let us examine some traits of David’s life to understand what this means: One reason David is referred to as a man after God’s own heart is his unwavering faith in God. This point is most vividly demonstrated in 1 Samuel 17, where the young shepherd boy David bravely defeated the Philistine giant, Goliath. Just prior to the confrontation, we witness clear evidence of David’s faith when he declares, ‘The LORD who rescued me from the paw of the lion and from the paw of the bear will rescue me from the hand of this Philistine.’ 
Saul then responds to David, ‘Go, and may the LORD be with you!’ (verse 37). David was acutely aware that God governed his life, and he trusted that God would save him from imminent peril. How else could one approach a potentially lethal encounter with such serenity and assurance? From an early age, David understood that God was worthy of trust and obedience. As depicted in Scripture, David’s faith brought pleasure to God, and in turn, God rewarded David for his steadfastness.
Another reason David exemplified a man after God’s own heart is his profound love for God’s Law. Among the 150 psalms found in the Bible, David is attributed with the authorship of more than half. Composed during various and often challenging periods of his life, David consistently expressed his deep affection for God’s flawless Word. 
A striking illustration of this can be found in Psalm 119:47–48: “For I delight in your commands because I love them. I lift up my hands to your commands, which I love, and I meditate on your decrees.” It is evident that he held a complete reverence for God’s Word.
Additionally, observe how David engages in “meditation” on God’s statutes. God bestowed upon David understanding and wisdom through his daily reflections. It would be beneficial for us to not only read God’s Word but also to contemplate it throughout the day, as God desires us to reflect on Him. “Blessed are they who keep his statutes and seek him with all their heart. They do nothing wrong; they walk in his ways” (Psalm 119:2–3).
To be continued.
Have a great week!
Questions or comments?
+1-732-554-1376 (WhatsApp)
