King David
Man After God's Own Heart
David was Israel's greatest king, a skilled warrior, talented musician, and prolific psalm writer. Despite his failures, he is remembered as a man after God's own heart.
Key Bible Verse
"The Lord has sought out a man after his own heart and appointed him ruler of his people."
— 1 Samuel 13:14
Significance
David established Jerusalem as Israel's capital, brought the ark of the covenant there, and received God's promise that the Messiah would come from his lineage. His psalms express the full range of human emotion in relationship with God.
Key Life Events
Anointed as king while still a shepherd boy
Defeated Goliath with a sling and stone
Served King Saul as musician and warrior
Fled from Saul's jealous rage
Spared Saul's life twice
Became king of Judah, then all Israel
Brought the ark of the covenant to Jerusalem
Sinned with Bathsheba and repented
Faced rebellion from son Absalom
Wrote many of the Psalms
Spiritual Lessons
God looks at the heart, not outward appearance
Genuine repentance brings restoration
Worship should be wholehearted and passionate
Even great leaders face consequences for sin
Trust God in times of persecution and difficulty
Express your full range of emotions to God in prayer
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