Why was David called a man after Gods own heart?
“And when he had removed him, he raised up unto them David to be their king; to whom also he gave testimony, and said, I have found David the son of Jesse, a man after mine own heart, which shall fulfil all my will.” Acts 13:22
What does it take to be a man after Gods own heart? He or She needs to be one who is ready to do ALL of Gods will.
How was Davids heart according to God?
“For it came to pass, when Solomon was old, that his wives turned away his heart after other gods: and his heart was not perfect with the Lord his God, as was the heart of David his father.” 1 Kings 11:4
David had a perfect heart, unlike Solomon. What was the key differentiator? David maintained his steadfast love for God alone, irrespective of his personal failings. While Solomon turned to strange gods as he began to please his heathen wives.
We know David committed terrible sins. But, unlike Solomon, he admitted his mistake in the presence of God.
“I acknowledged my sin to You, And I did not hide my wickedness; I said, “I will confess [all] my transgressions to the LORD ”; And You forgave the guilt of my sin. Selah.” Psalms 32:5
When Nathan the prophet approached David, and presented his case. David admitted his fault, repented profusely.
Man seeks to do his own will. For the heart of man is desperately wicked, who can know it? Yet, Davids pursuit of God, set him apart. How?
How did David do the will of God?
David was Gods servant, and his heart was fixed on Him (Psalms 108:1). He desired the praise and glory of God. He knew who God was, and his stature before His majesty and first love.
“Not with eyeservice, as menpleasers; but as the servants of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart;” Ephesians 6:6
David served God with all his heart. He never pleased man but stayed true to Gods heart of serving Gods own people too. Even when the odds were against him, he won over his people by being an example. Any servant of Christ will feed the flock willingly and walk exemplarily.
Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof, not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind; Neither as being lords over God's heritage, but being ensamples to the flock. (1 Peter 5:2,3)
What is required to be a man after Gods heart? Love God with all your heart and mind and strength. Love the people. Like David, trust in God for all things, He will see us through.