21 Days of Prayer - PersevereSample

When Everyone Counts You Out

David’s story began with everyone--including his own family--counting him out. When Samuel came looking for a king, Jesse had seven sons meet him without seeing the need to bring David in from the fields. When Samuel saw all the men and knew none were God’s chosen, he asked if there was anyone else. His dad replied, “The youngest is still left, but he is tending the sheep” (1 Samuel 16:11). Did Jesse not see the need to bring David in because he was young? Did he not want to keep his son from continuing his work in the field? We’re not sure why Jesse chose to leave David out in the field initially, but one thing’s for sure: David was left in the field because no one thought he was important enough to be king.

This experience reoccurs in David’s life. When David goes to fight Goliath, he’s counted out; no one thinks a boy can kill a giant. But repeatedly, David overcomes the odds and proves those around him wrong. We learn from David’s life that God still factors you in when people count you out.

There may be moments when you feel like you’re persevering alone. Maybe you feel like people have disqualified you or aren’t supportive of something you know God has called you to do. In those moments, keep relying on God’s Word. Keep relying on God’s strength. Even when people forget about you and don’t believe in you, God sees you and is preparing you to play a major role in the story He’s writing.

Emily N. Green

Prayer Point: In what way do you feel like people have “counted you out”? Pray about this and ask God to show you where He’s given you favor.