“The LORD does not look at the things man looks at. Man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart.”
1 Samuel 16:7b
When Ray Lewis entered the 1996 National Football League draft, some speculated he was too small to be a linebacker. However, after 17 years with the Baltimore Ravens, he accumulated many honors including two championships and two Defensive Player of the Year awards. The Ravens saw in him what other teams overlooked: a courageous competitor. They knew the value of the heart of the player in Lewis.
In a more awe-inspiring way, God sees what the world cannot: our hearts. He examines what is inside and commissions us to complete His will. Does God’s call seem daunting or unattainable? Surely it would be if we attempted it in our own strength. Yet God’s grace goes before us so we can flourish for His kingdom.
Paul told Timothy, “Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young” (1 Timothy 4:12a). If your weakness is hindering your openness to God’s work, know that He uses it to show His power. He sees your heart with its failures and inadequacies, but He loves you unconditionally anyway. Trust His assessment, not the world’s.
In a more awe-inspiring way, God sees what the world cannot: our hearts. He examines what is inside and commissions us to complete His will. Does God’s call seem daunting or unattainable? Surely it would be if we attempted it in our own strength. Yet God’s grace goes before us so we can flourish for His kingdom.
Paul told Timothy, “Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young” (1 Timothy 4:12a). If your weakness is hindering your openness to God’s work, know that He uses it to show His power. He sees your heart with its failures and inadequacies, but He loves you unconditionally anyway. Trust His assessment, not the world’s.
Scripture Focus
1 Samuel 16:1-13
Insight
“Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.” (Proverbs 4:23)
Bible In A Year
- 2 Chronicles 1-2
- Psalm 8
- Matthew 12