Saul has made mistakes. He tends to come up with excuses and blame-shifts rather than owning up to his missteps. Now, God has rejected him which puts Samuel, who anointed Saul king, in a challenging situation—anoint another king. While Saul was the strapping, tall, dark, and handsome one, we are introduced to a new scene where Samuel is tempted to look for Saul-like outward strength and stature. A parade of candidates from the family of Jesse are showcased, and if it were Samuel’s choice, it is clear there would have been multiple winners. God had other plans. This job would require the faithful one in the pastures, the one who gets overlooked. Like Saul, David is handsome, but young and clearly not what his family would consider a “leader” since he wasn’t even invited to Samuel’s party.
