What is the meaning of 1 Samuel 16:9? Next Jesse presented Shammah • Jesse is methodically parading his sons before the prophet, moving from the eldest downward (1 Samuel 16:6–8). • Shammah, the third son (1 Samuel 17:13; 1 Chronicles 2:13), would have been viewed in the family as another strong candidate—mature, battle-ready, and from a respected lineage in Bethlehem (Ruth 4:17, 22). • The sequence reminds us that God is allowing every natural option to be exhausted before revealing His unexpected choice, echoing earlier patterns where human strength is bypassed for divine purposes (Judges 6:14-16; 1 Corinthians 1:27). but Samuel said • Samuel acts as God’s mouthpiece, refusing to rely on personal impressions (contrast 1 Samuel 16:6 with v. 7). • His pause and response demonstrate disciplined obedience; he will not anoint anyone unless the Lord signals approval (1 Samuel 16:1, 12). • This moment teaches discernment: even trusted leaders must wait for God’s confirmation rather than hastily endorsing promising prospects (Proverbs 3:5-6; Isaiah 55:8-9). “The LORD has not chosen this one either.” • The decisive factor is divine election, not family order, appearance, or ability (1 Samuel 13:14; Acts 13:22). • “Either” underscores a growing list of rejections, heightening suspense and clarifying that God’s standards are internally focused (1 Samuel 16:7; Luke 16:15). • Shammah is not condemned; he simply is not selected for this specific calling. God often uses many faithful people in supporting roles while reserving key assignments for those whose hearts align precisely with His purposes (Romans 12:4-8; 2 Timothy 2:20-21). summary Shammah’s brief appearance shows God systematically overruling human expectations. Samuel’s steady listening contrasts with Jesse’s natural assumptions. Each “not chosen” sets the stage for David, proving that the Lord’s choice rests on heart-readiness, not outward credentials. |
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