How can we apply 1 Samuel 16:9 in evaluating our own priorities? Setting the Scene “Then Jesse made Shammah pass by, but Samuel said, ‘The LORD has not chosen this one either.’” (1 Samuel 16:9) Key Truth Uncovered • God’s approval—not human impression—determines true worth. • Samuel, guided by the Lord, rejects every impressive candidate until God identifies David (v. 12). • The verse highlights a decisive moment: even good, capable options can still be outside God’s will. Why This Matters for Our Priorities • We also line up “Shammahs”—activities, goals, relationships—that look promising but may not be God-chosen. • God’s “not this one” protects us from settling for less than His best. • Priorities anchored in divine choice keep us from wasting time, resources, and affection. Questions to Ask Ourselves When Setting Priorities • Does this pursuit align with God’s revealed Word? (Psalm 119:105) • Will it advance His kingdom first? (Matthew 6:33) • Is the Spirit giving peace or a holy check? (Colossians 3:15) • Am I valuing outward appearance over inward substance? (1 Samuel 16:7) Practical Steps for the Week 1. List your top five commitments. 2. Prayerfully place each before God, inviting Him to say, “not this one.” 3. Compare each commitment with Scriptural commands and principles. 4. Re-order, delay, or discard anything that fails the test. 5. Replace rejected priorities with tasks that clearly honor Christ—serving, giving, discipling. Cautions to Avoid • Confusing personal preference with God’s voice (Proverbs 14:12). • Assuming that if something is not chosen now, it is rejected forever; God’s timing may differ. • Letting popularity or pressure override the Spirit’s whisper (Galatians 1:10). Encouragement from Other Scriptures • Proverbs 16:9—“A man’s heart plans his course, but the LORD determines his steps.” • Romans 12:2—renewing the mind enables us to “test and approve what God’s will is.” • Philippians 3:7–8—Paul counts former gains as loss to gain Christ. By allowing the Lord to say, “not this one” over our own “Shammahs,” we align daily choices with His perfect heart. |
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