He chose his servant David, calling him from the sheep pens. He took David from tending the ewes and lambs and made him the shepherd of Jacob’s descendants—God’s own people, Israel.
-Psalm 78:70-71

When it comes to the great heroes of the Bible, David is a clear favorite. He was a righteous king, a courageous warrior, an acclaimed musician, and an incredible poet. I mean, what’s not to like? The guy did it all.

I think it’s important to remember that while God did do amazing things through King David’s life, he wasn’t born into royalty. David wasn’t handed anything on a silver platter. These verses from Psalms are a nice reminder of David’s humble beginnings. Yes, he did eventually lead God’s chosen people as king of Israel. But he first had to lead sheep.

First of all, being a shepherd wasn’t exactly the most prestigious job of the time. It was hard, dirty, stinky work, but it took a lot of responsibility. Sheep turned to their shepherd for direction, for needs, and for protection — just like Israel would for David later on. Unbeknown to him at the time, it was just the type of experience he would need down the road as Israel’s king. This was his training ground.

This idea made me think of what the  “sheep pens” of today are. Those simple, ordinary, day-to-day situations that we take lightly. God may have already chosen us from the classroom, sports team, restaurant, delivery truck,  or cubicle, and is using that moment to prepare us for our future.

God, I know you have great plans for my life. Wherever I’m currently at, teach me and use me. And if I must care for “sheep” first, so be it.