1 Samuel 16:7
7 But God told Samuel, “Looks aren’t everything. Don’t be impressed with his looks and stature. I’ve already eliminated him. God judges persons differently than humans do. Men and women look at the face; God looks into the heart.” (The Message Bible. Bible Gateway, biblegateway.com, Accessed January 29,2022)
I received a bouquet of roses and within weeks, the roses began to wither. Reaching to throw them away, I quickly withdrew my hand because the aroma of the flowers was wonderful. Realizing that the appearance of the flowers has nothing to do with the fragrance, I began to wonder how many fragrant flowers have I discarded in the past?
More importantly, how many times have I discarded people because of their looks overlooking their fragrance (character)? Yet accepting a more attractive person only to discover later that their character truly stinks. Although pleasurable to the eyes, their character could not keep my attention. Because I am one of those people who care about the heart of the matter.
It matters to me how servers are talked to and tipped. I care about the opinion of marginalized people. I want everyone to win by honest practices. And I have fallen prey to the opinions of others, judging by looks, and popular demand. So, I am grateful for the reminder to not be deceived by what I see but to get closer and determine the heart of the matter.
Prayer
Most gracious and honorable Lord, I thank you for seeing my heart. You know me, the secret faults, ugly thoughts, and sometimes unruly behavior. But the condition of my heart allows me access to you, and I am eternally grateful. I am also grateful for your protection from those that wish to betray and deceive me. You alone are God and as I follow you there is protection from the most attractive faces and most deceitful hearts. Hallelujah! I praise and honor your name and thank you for your guidance.
In Jesus Name
Amen
Categories: L L McAdoo Life Moment
I have allowed people with a wonderful appearance to cloud my judgment many, many times and the people with no so good appearances I sent them on their way just to find out their hearts were evil. I paid dearly for that, but this quite here makes me look at everything very carefully. I’m glad I read this today.
We are human and are controlled by our senses. But as we mature in Christ, surrender our decisions to the guidance of the Holy Spirit, spiritual things become clear and we began to be more kingdom minded and make better choices.