Other Plans

The Lord says, "I took you from the ends of the earth, from its farthest corners I called you. I said, 'You are my servant'; I have chosen you and have not rejected you."

Isaiah 41:9 (NIV)

IN today's reading God sent Samuel to find Israel's king. Samuel was looking for a man of human power and strength, but God was looking for a different kind of leader. God chose David, a shepherd with no leadership experience. Though David's father and brothers saw him as too young for anything but tending sheep, God saw him differently.
I've spent some time on the sidelines too. Once I applied for a pastoral position. After reading through the qualifications and requirements for the job, I prayed about it and submitted the necessary documents. I was interviewed, and soon after I received a letter of rejection. I later learned that my age and inexperience had cost me the job. The days following that rejection were painful and dark. But I learned a lot about myself, and I never stopped believing that God had something better for me. "The Lord does not see as mortals see; they look on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart" (l Sam. 16:7, nrsv).
Whenever we are rejected, we can remember David. His family saw only a sheepherder, but God saw a king. What does God see in you?

The Author

Jason Mills (Ontario, Canada)

Thought for the Day

No matter how people see us, God can use us for good.

Prayer

Dear Lord, help us to trust you when we feel abandoned, lonely, or rejected. Grant us hope to see the future possibilities instead of the present disappointment and rejection. Thank you for choosing us as your own. Amen.

Prayer focus Those looking for a job