A Man After God's Heart

So what was it about King David that made him a man after God's own heart (Acts 13:22)? He was a great king. He was a fearless warrior. He was fiercely loyal. He had an unparalleled way of expressing his heartfelt emotions. He was also an adulterer, liar and murderer. He was hardly an exemplary father. So what earned him the unique distinction that showed he was great at the Great Commandment (Mark 12:30)?

More than anything else, David had a complete and unwavering confidence in the faithfulness and forgiveness of God. Though he sinned many times, he was quick to confess his sins (2 Samuel 24:10). His confession was from the heart and his desire to restore relationship with his Heavenly Father was genuine. He never took God's blessings for granted. As a result, God never held back his forgiveness nor the consequences of his actions. David would gladly pay for his sins than miss the joy of forgiveness and a restored relationship with God.

David sinned greatly, but he didn't sin repeatedly. He was keenly aware that the most devastating consequence of sin was separation from God and that was the last thing he ever wanted. We can all probably relate to David's failures but the big question is how well do we relate to his desire to seek the Father. Are we--like David--men after God's heart?