God told the prophet Samuel to anoint a new king. God told Samuel the exact town to go to and a specific family. God told Samuel everything he needed to know and no more.
God could have told Samuel David's name but He didn't.
Have you ever wondered why He didn't?
I can't speak for God on this, but I can give you some of my thoughts.
I believe it was necessary for Jesse, Samuel, Jesse's sons and David to see God pass over all the other sons first. Samuel was ready to anoint the first son who came into the room, but God told him no.
God told Samuel He wasn't choosing the new king based on appearance but based on his heart's condition spiritually.
Even Father Jesse assumed it would be one of his sons who wasn't a shepherd, who wasn't the youngest. He assumed it wouldn't be David. He hadn't even invited David to witness the anointing.
So, when it happened, everyone present witnessed David's anointing: Samuel, Jesse, his sons and David himself. No one could deny it. No one could argue.
God knows what He's doing. Maybe some of the steps we have to go through in life aren't for us but for others looking on.
God doesn't waste his time or ours. If you find yourself in a pickle, then that pickle is most likely necessary. Ride it out, hold on tight and keep believing no matter what!