New International Version

1 Samuel 16:1-3 New International Version (NIV)

1. The Lord said to Samuel, “How long will you mourn for Saul, since I have rejected him as king over Israel? Fill your horn with oil and be on your way; I am sending you to Jesse of Bethlehem. I have chosen one of his sons to be king.”

2. But Samuel said, “How can I go? If Saul hears about it, he will kill me.” The Lord said, “Take a heifer with you and say, ‘I have come to sacrifice to the Lord.’

3. Invite Jesse to the sacrifice, and I will show you what to do. You are to anoint for me the one I indicate.”