Psalms 78:70 (KJV)

What does Psalms 78:70 mean?

Psalms 78:70 says that God specifically chose David, calling him His servant, and took him from tending sheep to serve a much greater purpose. The verse highlights God's deliberate selection of David from humble beginnings to lead His people.

In this psalm, the writer (traditionally Asaph) is recounting Israel’s history to the people, showing how God’s choices often come from unexpected places. By mentioning David’s origins among the sheepfolds, the verse emphasizes both David’s humble background and God’s initiative in raising him up for leadership.

The Hebrew behind Psalms 78:70

• "chose" (בָּחַר, bachar): This word means to select or pick out, often with the idea of a careful or purposeful choice. Here, it underscores that God’s selection of David was intentional, not random.
• "servant" (עֶבֶד, eved): This term means a servant or bondservant, highlighting David’s role as someone devoted to serving God, not just holding a title.
• "took" (לָקַח, laqach): This word means to take or seize, suggesting God’s active involvement in moving David from his old life to a new calling.
• "sheepfolds" (מִשְׁפְּחוֹת, mishpenot; צֹאן, tson): These words refer to the enclosures or places where sheep are kept. Mentioning them points to David’s lowly and ordinary occupation before his rise to kingship.

Why Psalms 78:70 matters

• The verse clears up any idea that David became king through his own ambition or status; it was God who chose and elevated him.
• It highlights a theme running through the psalm: God often works through people and places that seem insignificant by human standards.
• This verse connects to the larger story of God’s faithfulness to Israel, showing that God’s leadership and care for His people continue through the line of David.