I Samuel 16:7 “But the Lord said to Samuel, ‘Do not look at his appearance or at the height of his stature, because I have rejected him; for God sees not as man sees, for man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.’”

Man, I love this verse. How many times have you looked at some smart, good looking young person who has a great personality and charisma and thought, “Boy, if God got a hold of him, He could really use him”? That is such wrong thinking. That is exactly the kind of man Saul was according to I Samuel 9:2 (read it).

So, it seems God, in choosing the second King of Israel, deliberately chose a young man, David, who was not even thought enough of by his father to have him come in from the fields to line up for Samuel. Why would God choose the youngest of the eight brothers?

This is a perfect verse to show your children how God determines the usefulness of people, not people. They may think they don’t “have what it takes” to be used, but God can take the most unlikely boys and girls and make them into kings and queens. God even knew all the mistakes David would make in the future, but He still chose him to be the king.

What strengths does your child have? Help him or her develop them. But also look at their weaknesses and do all you can to strengthen them. All the while remember that is not up to you to determine the outcome. That’s God’s business. God will use anyone who is surrendered to Him. It may take time for His perfect Will to be seen by your child (or you), but when it is revealed it will make perfect sense.

Some children know at an early age what God is leading them to do. Others may take, well, longer. Encourage, direct, teach and train! But don’t push. Let God draw them into the path He has for them. That will make their journey with God so much sweeter.