Thought

Young David took his responsibility to care for his father’s sheep seriously—even risking his own life for them! And though he was the youngest and least important of his family, when David appeared before Samuel, the prophet could see right away that the young man had a great heart filled with courage. Samuel proclaimed God’s message that eventually David would care for God’s people—His “sheep.” In the Bible we see that God often chose to use people others might not notice—people with inward courage and faith.

Word

1 Samuel 16:7 NIV

But the LORD said to Samuel, “Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The LORD does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.”

Question

When you’re choosing people to play on your team for a sport or game, how do you decide?

What do you look for or what do you consider about each person? What qualities make for a good teammate? What qualities make for a good leader?

Challenge

Take a picture of yourself and ask a parent to help you print it out or bring up the image on a device in a program that allows you to write on the picture. Write words on your image that tell what strengths or talents are inside you that others might not notice. If you have trouble thinking of any, ask a family member or a friend who knows you well to offer some ideas.

Prayer

Lord, give me courage to live out Your plans for me. As I grow in my faith, give me more responsibility and the ability to do my jobs well. Amen.