GOD USES THE UNLIKELY
FEBRUARY 3, 2026
TEXT: 1 Samuel 16:1–13
KEY VERSE: “For the LORD seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the LORD looketh on the heart.” — 1 Samuel 16:7 (KJV)
David was the youngest of eight sons, a shepherd boy assigned to the fields while his brothers stood before the prophet. In the eyes of his family and society, David was insignificant—too young, too small, and easily overlooked. Yet God’s evaluation was very different. While people measured by appearance, position, and experience, God looked into the heart. He saw a man whose trust, obedience, and love for Him were already being formed in hidden places.
Being “unlikely” often means being ignored, underestimated, or placed on the margins. Many are dismissed not because they lack ability, but because they do not fit human expectations. David’s life reminds us that God is not limited by birth order, social standing, or outward strength. When others saw a shepherd, God saw a king. What men overlook, God often chooses.
David’s early trials were not accidents. Guarding sheep in isolation, confronting lions and bears, enduring neglect from his own family, and later facing rejection and jealousy from Saul were all part of God’s training ground. These unseen battles shaped David’s courage, humility, and dependence on God. Every small act of faithfulness in obscurity became preparation for public responsibility.
God’s pattern in Scripture is consistent: He uses the weak to confound the strong, and the overlooked to display His glory. Human standards such as appearance, education, influence, or connections do not determine God’s choice. The unlikely are chosen because they are more aware of their need for God. This dependence allows God’s power to be clearly seen, without human pride taking credit.
Spiritually, this teaches us that God’s work is often invisible before it becomes visible. Seasons that feel like insignificance are often seasons of deep formation. What feels like delay or weakness may actually be God’s preparation for future assignment. David learned to rely on God in the fields long before he stood in the palace or faced Goliath. Faithfulness in hidden places positions the unlikely for extraordinary purpose.
SEARCHLIGHT: God prepares His chosen ones in obscurity—what looks like insignificance is often divine preparation.
PRAYER: Lord, help me remain faithful when I am unseen. Shape my heart, use my weakness, and prepare me for the purpose You have designed. Amen.
BIBLE READING: Numbers 7-9; | Romans 14
PASTOR MICHAEL OMOLE
