What does 1 Samuel 16:18 mean?
God has removed His Spirit from Saul, after rejecting him as king (1 Samuel 13:11–14; 15:17–29). Now a harmful spirit is afflicting Saul (1 Samuel 16:14). Likely this is a demon whom God has allowed to torment the sitting king due to his disobedience. Saul's servants likely do not know that Saul has been rejected by God, and Saul will retain the throne for at least another ten years. But his servants are aware of the affliction and have suggested Saul retain a musician to help (1 Samuel 16:15–16). Saul has agreed and asked them to find a skilled musician (1 Samuel 16:17).One of the servants already has someone in mind. The servant says that he has seen a son of Jesse the Bethlehemite, who is a skilled musician, a man of sound character, and with whom God is present.
The implication is that this young man has seen David play the lyre and play it well. David will become famous for his musical ability, including writing many of the psalms. David is not just a good musician, though. He is also known as a man of valor, a man of war, prudent in speech, having a good presence, and having the Lord with him. That's quite a description and all desirable qualities for someone who would be so close to the king. David has strength, wisdom and discretion, and a pleasing appearance. More importantly, God is with him.
Some commentators suggest that perhaps the description is meant to be applied to the family, in general, or to Jesse. Based on the events in 1 Samuel 17, it seems likely that David was not old enough to have been a trained warrior. But he does seem to have had a growing reputation as an outstanding person favored by the Lord.
