Old Testament
Psalms 78:70
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
This verse highlights God's choice of David as a leader for His people.
- Author
- David, Asaph, the sons of Korah, Solomon, and others
- Written
- Around 1000-500 BC
- Genre
- Poetry and worship
- Original Audience
- Worshipers of Israel
He chose David also his servant and took him from the sheepfolds.
He chose David also his servant, and took him from the sheepfolds:
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse highlights God's choice of David as a leader for His people. David was not from a royal background; instead, he was a humble shepherd, tending to sheep. This selection emphasizes that God often chooses unlikely individuals for significant roles, demonstrating His sovereignty and wisdom. By taking David from the sheepfolds, God shows that He values character and faithfulness over social status or human qualifications. David's journey from a shepherd to a king illustrates how God can elevate those who are faithful in small things to greater responsibilities. This choice also sets the stage for David's future as a leader who would unite Israel and establish a legacy that includes the lineage of Jesus Christ. Overall, this verse serves as a reminder of God's ability to see potential in people that others might overlook, and it encourages us to trust in His plans, even when they seem unconventional. Explore related leadership.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Psalms 78:70 to your life
We can learn from David's story that our backgrounds do not define our potential. God can use anyone, regardless of their past or status, for His purposes. This encourages us to remain faithful in our current roles, trusting that God has a plan for us.
Curated for this public verse page. Psalms Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Psalms 78:70 mean?
Psalms 78:70 means that God chose David to be a leader despite his humble beginnings as a shepherd. This choice illustrates how God values character and faithfulness over social status.
What is the significance of David being taken from the sheepfolds in Psalms 78:70?
David being taken from the sheepfolds signifies that God often selects unlikely individuals for important roles, highlighting His ability to see potential where others may not.
How does Psalms 78:70 relate to leadership?
Psalms 78:70 relates to leadership by showing that true leaders can come from humble beginnings, and that God equips those He chooses for significant roles.
What themes are present in Psalms 78:70?
Themes in Psalms 78:70 include divine selection, humility, faithfulness, and God's sovereignty in choosing leaders based on character rather than status.

The Book of Psalms
Psalm 1: Two Paths
This psalm describes two paths. The blessed person does not follow the counsel of the ungodly, does not stand in the way of sinners, and does not sit among the scornful. Instead, this person delights in the law of the LORD and thinks on it day and night.
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