“House of David”: A Glimpse Into Christian Meditation and Obedience.

Samuel anoints David the next King of Israel (House of David on Amazon Prime)

Christian Meditation on 'House of David'

The House of David on Amazon Prime is a story of old. Can ancient stories still captivate today’s audiences? In a time when kings ruled and giants stomped, some would say that it is a far stretch from today’s cellphone-addicted society. What can we learn from the challenges that David, Samuel, and Saul faced? Just as Saul struggled with obedience and his family suffered, his character becomes relatable. David’s family dynamic was slightly different because he often felt like the outsider destined to herd sheep. God defied the stereotypes of man by looking at the heart of David. Even in his old age, Samuel is faithful to God and highlights God’s sense of humor. With so much focus on appearance today, it can be easy to get caught up in outward things. This series teaches us to slow down and remember the principles that bring in the blessings of God. Faith, obedience, leadership, and forgiveness never go out of style. 

The Origins of Meditation

The Bible mentions meditation 23 times and 19 times in the book of Psalms. It is no secret that David was an excellent musician filled with the Spirit of God. In addition to David’s fearlessness and obedience, we can learn something about meditation. The series highlights moments of deep breathing and reflection on the part of David. He practiced sitting still in concentration fully immersed in the realm of God. This practice removes confusion and brings in clarity and solace. Meditation focusing on God's goodness, precepts, and ways should not be confused with New Age meditation. If the practice of meditation is biblical, why is it often associated with anti-biblical practices? In new-age meditation, the goal is to empty the mind. In Christianity, an empty mind can lead to an idol mind. It is important to understand that biblical meditation empties the mind of all distractions and fills the mind with scripture, prayer, and reflection. Which in turn can foster a deeper connection with God.

 I will meditate in thy precepts, And have respect unto thy ways. -Psalms 119:15

David practiced great patience and humility as he closely watched the torment of Saul and the chaos during his reign. Saul’s family shared elaborate meals dressed in the finest linens, the custom design in the series embodied the time and the essence of royalty. David sat as a shepherd singing and playing to soothe the “king”. He carried a secret, one of destiny that would change the course of Israel forever. To quiet the noise in his mind and around him, David chose to take refuge in the presence of God. It strengthened his faith and gave him clarity concerning his purpose. 

Moreover whom he did predestinate, them he also called: and who he called, them he also justified: and whom he justified, them he also glorified.-Romans 8:30

Scenes from 'House of David'

The rise and the decline. Samuel teaches David that obedience will always be better than sacrifice. God removed his spirit from Saul because of disobedience. At the same time, David was anointed because of his obedience to God. In the midst of some disobedience, David, Jonathan, and Samuel shine bright as Champions for God. The scriptures are full of examples, some of which pleased God and others that did not. The ‘House of David' series turned an ancient story into a cinematic masterpiece.

And Samuel said, Hath the LORD as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, As in obeying the voice of the LORD? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, And to hearken than the fat of rams. -I Samuel 15:22

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