Welcome to the first episode of our new QuickWord series on David, a man after God’s own heart. Today’s devotional from 1 Samuel 16:13 reminds us that David was anointed long before he was appointed. Overlooked by his own father and brothers, David was chosen by God in private before anyone else recognized it. He carried the oil but returned to the fields, learning faithfulness in the waiting.

This message is for anyone caught between anointing and appointing—knowing God’s hand is on your life but still waiting for the doors to open. Don’t despise being unseen. If God has anointed you, no one can deny you. Stay faithful, stay patient, and trust Him in the holding pattern.

Today’s QuickWord from 2 Samuel 21:10 reflects on Rizpah, a grieving mother who refused to leave the bodies of her sons, keeping vigil on a rock for months until God moved. Her endurance and love became the turning point that ended a national famine. In the same way, our pain is never wasted when carried in faith. Stay on the rock—stay in prayer, stay in belief, and stay in hope—because God sees, He hears, and He will answer.

Today’s QuickWord from 1 Samuel 18:28–29 reminds us that some people aren’t upset with what you’ve done — they’re unsettled by who you’re becoming. Saul became David’s enemy continually, not because of David’s actions, but because God’s favor exposed Saul’s insecurity. When others turn against you, don’t retaliate. Keep walking with God, stay humble, and remember this truth: their fear doesn’t cancel your favor.