From Evernote:

The Heart of a Shepherd (Part 1) by Sis. Techie Rodriguez

Reading: Psalms 23

Symbols related to shepherds: rod, staff, sheep

Story: 1 Samuel 16. The Lord gave Samuel specific instructions how Samuel will anoint the King the Lord has appointed for Israel.

The Lord has rejected Saul because of his disobedience. The anointing was removed from him. Obedience is doing exactly what the Lord instructed. See 1 Samuel 15. -- Then Samuel said,  "Does the LORD take pleasure in burnt offerings and sacrifices as much as he does in obedience?  Certainly, obedience is better than sacrifice; paying attention is better than the fat of rams. -1 Samuel 15:22

Real obedience is not half hearted. It is finishing the task even if you dont like it.

David was a man after God's own heart (Acts 13).

Jesus obeyed the will of the Father even unto death.

When we face the Lord, can we say to him, "It is finished!"

Psalms 37:4 Then you will take delight in the LORD, and he will answer your prayers.

Jesse's son was presented to Samuel one by one.

1. Eliab - "our God is Father". Though we call Lord Lord but does not do the will of the Father, we cannot enter the kingdom of heaven.

2. Abinadab - "liberal". No amount of contribution to the community will

3. Shammah - "fame/renown". The Lord himself raises and puts down a person. No amount of desire can bring you fame.

4. 5. 6. 7. All were not chosen.

The Lord is looking at our hearts. The Lord was looking for somebody that is after his own heart.

Samuel did not sit down to dinner until he has accomplished what the Lord has asked him to do. They sent for David who was shepherding the sheep.

It was David's experience as shepherd that he won over Goliath. It was his shepherd's heart, laying down his life for the sheep that won for him God's favor.

We must pass God's heart test.

Know your sheep.

Know the condition of each sheep.

  - Look after spiritual welfare.

Feed the sheep with the pure word of God. 2Tim4.

  - not to impress the sheep but to feed, nurture and lead sheep to verdant pastures

Protect the sheep, warn of danger.

David's appearance did not distract Samuel, but still waited for God to declare him as the chosen king.

Humble heart, tender heart.

The shepherd's tools.

1. Rod and Staff - symbolizes authority. Also given to Moses to be a sign of his leadership over Israel. Moses too was a shepherd.

- used to take care of the sheep, not to Lord over.

- used to guide the sheep.

2. Oil - to heal the wounded sheep. To protect from insects.

TO BE CONTINUED...