There was a discussion about recruiting a worshiper, singer, and musician, to minister to King Saul. Someone gave testimony about the teenager David. “One of the young men answered, “Behold, I have seen a son of Jesse the Bethlehemite, who is skillful in playing, a man of valor, a man of war, prudent in speech, and a man of good presence, and the Lord is with him.” (I Samuel 16:18)
Skillful: God gives talents for all humans, and spiritual gifts to all believers. However, skills are obtained through training, diligence, and consistent practice. Ability plus attitude makes a person skillful. Some have the potential to become experts and champions, but laziness makes them a mediocre performer or a failure.
Man of Valor: David was a man of valor. He stayed outdoors taking care of the sheep in the wilderness, far away from his home. Timid people cannot live outdoors for long, including several nights. David should be bold to deal with Saul, who could misbehave when the demons torment him.
Man of war: Boldness is not enough. He should have agility, and skills to defend himself if he is attacked. David was equipped to deal with the wild animals that attacked the flock. Today, Christians ought to resist evil.
Prudent in speech: David was diplomatic in his speech. He knew when to speak and when to be silent. Appropriate words were used by him in each context. David should be able to wisely speak and calm down Saul who could become ferocious.
Good presence: The young man testified that God’s presence was with David. Was David’s face radiated with a smile of love, and hope? David had a sweet personality that all liked him.
Lord is with him: David was spiritually mature and was led by the Spirit. Hence, others could acknowledge that God was with him. Laban could recognize that God was with Jacob. (Genesis 30:27) The Pharoah recognized that the Lord was with Joseph. (Genesis 41:38) Nebuchadnezzar recognized the Spirit of true God was in Daniel. (Daniel 4:18)
How am I being described by others?