In What Way Could David Be Regarded as A Man After God’s Own Heart? (Part 2) By Babatunde Olugboji
This week, we will conclude this 2-part mini-series on the question of why David was described as a man after God’s own heart. Instructively, David was a man with a character that could arguably be described as flawed: he committed murder, he was adulterous, he played fast and loose with women, his household was engulfed in a massive crises including rape, and incest; and his Kingship was characterized by one disaster or another.
To fully understand why the Bible describes David as a man after God’s own heart, it is very important to examine the characteristics that qualified him for such a distinguished title, despite these apparent flaws. One of such characteristics was his attitude of thanksgiving.
He exemplified a man after God’s own heart through his genuine gratitude. “I wash my hands in innocence, and go about your altar, O LORD, proclaiming aloud your praise and telling of all your wonderful deeds” (Psalm 26: 6–7). His life was marked by periods of immense peace and prosperity, as well as moments of fear and despair. In other words, he endured both a season to forget and a season to celebrate.
Yet, throughout all these seasons, he consistently remembered to express his thanks to the Lord for all that he possessed. This is undoubtedly one of David’s most admirable traits. “Enter his gates with thanksgiving, and his courts with praise! Give thanks to him; bless his name!” (Psalm 100:4). As followers of Jesus Christ, we should strive to emulate David’s example of offering praise through gratitude to our Lord.
Following his sin, David showed true repentance. His transgression with Bathsheba is documented in 2 Samuel 11:2–5. The mighty can indeed fall hard, and David’s downfall involved adultery, deceit, and murder. He recognized his sin against God, as he confesses in 2 Samuel 12:13: “David said to Nathan, ‘I have sinned against the LORD.’ And Nathan replied, ‘The LORD has also put away your sin; you shall not die.’” 
However, acknowledging our sin and seeking forgiveness is only part of the process. The other part is true repentance, a trait which David also demonstrated. In Psalm 51 we read David’s heartfelt prayer of repentance to God: “Have mercy on me, O God, according to your steadfast love; according to your abundant mercy blot out my transgressions. Wash me thoroughly from my iniquity, and cleanse me from my sin!” (Psalm 51:1–2).
In summary, David was a man after God’s own heart because he showcased his faith and was dedicated to following the Lord. Indeed, his faith faced significant trials, and he stumbled at times. Nevertheless, after his sin, he earnestly sought and received the Lord’s forgiveness. Ultimately, David cherished God’s Law and endeavored to adhere to it faithfully.
As a man after God’s own heart, David serves as a role model for all of us.
Have a great week!
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