Foremost, it should be noted that David was far from perfect. His entire life had instances of violations of the law and disobedience to God’s command. He began his life from a humble background as a shepherd, before rising to death after killing Goliath. It should be noted that he exhibits immense humility upon realizing this achievement, by giving glory and recognition to God. This counts among the reasons why God referred to him in that manner.
His sentiments as recorded in the book of Psalms reveal the colossal love he had for God’s word. He professes his love for the creator’s instructions, by acknowledging that they shield him from sin, perk him up when he is faced with misery, and the word affords him enormous peace of mind. This fact depicts a man who is not self-seeking, rather appreciates the decisive role played by the Creator in his daily life.
The fact that David enjoyed intense intimacy with God counts as the main reason for this declaration. This is evidenced by the fact that David prayed and sang praises to God constantly. When faced with tribulations, the king was known to pour out his heart to God in earnest. On several occasions, he fasted until a solution was found for the challenge he encountered. Whenever all was well with him, David composed songs of praise to the Almighty, in which he sang of His endless mercy and abundant grace.
David chose his friends and associates carefully. This is because he hated the falsehood that characterized the worldly ways of life. It should be noted that this hatred was occasioned by his knowledge of Godly precepts. This choice ensured that he did what was right in the eyes of the lord, and repented genuinely in case he faltered along the way. This also ensured he respected God’s servants, as well. This is depicted by the reverence he had for Samuel and Nathan, both of whom served as prophets during his time. David also respects the priests, hence has a loving relationship with them. Most importantly, David spots an opportunity to kill Saul, his adversary. He fails to exploit the opportunity, observing that Saul was anointed by God.
The book of Psalms also reveals that David loved to praise God. This was an admirable feat, given the history of his predecessor. This is seen early during his tenure as a chief musician in King Saul’s court. Whenever affliction accosted him, David always knelt and presented the matter to God. He then remembered to appreciate God’s assistance after the issue had been resolved. Consequently, he acknowledges God’s righteous judgments and His loving-kindness as the main reason for his dongs of praise. It is also recorded that a demon left Saul on one occasion after he listened to David’s composition.
Finally, David desired unity among his subjects. This was occasioned by the pain he had due to the quagmire that accosted his family. Watching Amnon and Absalom quarrel must have been a difficult pill to swallow. He also knew the importance of proper friendship and accord, as evidenced by his relationship with Jonathan, Saul’s son.
Summarily, these are some of the reasons that prompted God’s reference to David as a man after His heart. He always sought to do what was right irrespective of the circumstance. Whenever he transgressed the law, he was courageous enough to plead with God for pardon, and he did so genuinely. This is a stark contrast to the present-day scenario, where people go about their business as if God is non-existent. Funnily, many persons lived by a similar code during David’s time.