Good News Bible

1 Samuel 16:11-21 Good News Bible (GNB)

11. Then he asked him, “Have you any more sons?”Jesse answered, “There is still the youngest, but he is out taking care of the sheep.”“Tell him to come here,” Samuel said. “We won't offer the sacrifice until he comes.”

12. So Jesse sent for him. He was a handsome, healthy young man, and his eyes sparkled. The Lord said to Samuel, “This is the one — anoint him!”

13. Samuel took the olive oil and anointed David in front of his brothers. Immediately the Spirit of the Lord took control of David and was with him from that day on. Then Samuel returned to Ramah.

14. The Lord's spirit left Saul, and an evil spirit sent by the Lord tormented him.

15. His servants said to him, “We know that an evil spirit sent by God is tormenting you.

16. So give us the order, sir, and we will look for a man who knows how to play the harp. Then when the evil spirit comes on you, the man can play his harp, and you will be all right again.”

17. Saul ordered them, “Find me a man who plays well and bring him to me.”

18. One of his attendants said, “Jesse, of the town of Bethlehem, has a son who is a good musician. He is also a brave and handsome man, a good soldier, and an able speaker. The Lord is with him.”

19. So Saul sent messengers to Jesse to say, “Send me your son David, the one who takes care of the sheep.”

20. Jesse sent David to Saul with a young goat, a donkey loaded with bread, and a leather bag full of wine.

21. David came to Saul and entered his service. Saul liked him very much and chose him as the man to carry his weapons.