A Man After God’s Heart

A MAN AFTER GOD’S HEART

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Text: Acts 13:22

Supporting Texts: 1 Samuel 16:7, Psalm 51:10, 2 Chronicles 16:9

INTRODUCTION:

God called David “a man after My own heart” (Acts 13:22). This wasn’t because David was perfect, but because his heart was devoted to God. To be a man or woman after God’s heart, you must prioritize Him above all, seek His will, and live to please Him. God is searching for hearts that are fully His—will yours be one of them?

1 – A HEART OF WORSHIP

A man after God’s heart loves to worship God in spirit and truth. David was a worshiper who poured out his heart to God through psalms and praises, even in difficult times.

Biblical Illustration: When David brought the Ark of God to Jerusalem, he danced with all his might, unashamed of what others thought (2 Samuel 6:14-16). His worship was heartfelt, not for show.

Modern Illustration: Sarah, a young single mother, faced financial hardship but never missed a Sunday to worship at church. Even when her car broke down, she walked miles to join the congregation, singing praises with joy. Her worship touched God’s heart, and He provided a new job that transformed her life.

2 – A HEART OF REPENTANCE

A man after God’s heart is quick to repent when they sin. David’s sin with Bathsheba was grievous, but when confronted, he didn’t make excuses—he repented with a broken heart.

Biblical Illustration: David prayed, “Create in me a clean heart, O God” (Psalm 51:10). His genuine repentance restored his fellowship with God, unlike Saul, who justified his disobedience (1 Samuel 15:20-23).

Modern Illustration: John, a successful businessman, was caught embezzling funds at work. Instead of hiding his sin, he confessed to his pastor, repaid the money, and sought God’s forgiveness. His repentance not only saved his job but also led his colleagues to Christ through his changed life.

3 – A HEART OF FAITH

A man after God’s heart trusts God against all odds. David faced Goliath not with physical strength but with unshakable faith in God’s power.

Biblical Illustration: David declared, “The Lord who delivered me from the lion and the bear will deliver me from this Philistine” (1 Samuel 17:37). His faith turned a shepherd boy into a giant-slayer.

Modern Illustration: Maria, a nurse during the pandemic, was diagnosed with a serious illness. Despite fear, she trusted God for healing, praying daily and encouraging her patients with hope. Miraculously, her condition improved, and her faith inspired others to turn to God.

4 – A HEART OF OBEDIENCE

A man after God’s heart seeks to obey God’s commands. David wasn’t perfect, but his heart desired to follow God’s will, even when it cost him.

Biblical Illustration: When David wanted to build God’s temple, God said no, but David still prepared resources for Solomon to do it (1 Chronicles 22:5-16). His obedience blessed the next generation.

Modern Illustration: Pastor James felt God calling him to start a small community outreach program instead of pursuing a larger, more prestigious ministry opportunity. He obeyed, and the outreach grew into a thriving ministry that fed hundreds of families, showing the fruit of his obedience.

5 – A HEART OF LOVE FOR GOD’S WORD

A man after God’s heart treasures God’s Word. David meditated on God’s law day and night, finding delight in it.

Biblical Illustration: David wrote, “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105). His love for God’s Word guided him through trials and triumphs.

Modern Illustration: Anna, a college student, struggled with anxiety but began memorizing Bible verses to find peace. She carried a small notebook with Scriptures and read them daily. God’s Word transformed her mind, and she now leads a campus Bible study, helping others find hope.

CONCLUSION:

To be a man or woman after God’s heart, you must cultivate a heart that worships, repents, trusts, obeys, and loves God’s Word. God isn’t looking for perfection but for a heart fully devoted to Him. Surrender your heart to God today, and let Him mold you into someone after His own heart.

ALTAR CALL:

Is your heart fully surrendered to God? Are you living to please Him above all else? If you want to be a man or woman after God’s heart, say this prayer:

"Lord Jesus, I surrender my heart to You. Forgive my sins and make me a person after Your heart. Fill me with Your Spirit and help me to worship, trust, and obey You. From today, I live for You alone. Thank You for accepting me. Amen."

PRAYER POINTS:

1. Father, thank You for calling me to be a person after Your heart.

2. Lord, fill my heart with a passion for worship and Your presence.