Daily devotional · August 4
Looking at the Heart
“When they arrived, Samuel saw Eliab and said, “Surely here before the LORD is His anointed.” But the LORD said to Samuel, “Do not consider his appearance or height, for I have rejected him; the LORD does not see as man does. For man sees the outward appearance, but the LORD sees the heart.””
Samuel arrives at Jesse's house sure that the tallest, strongest son must be the next king. God corrects him gently: people judge by what shows on the outside, but the Lord looks at the heart. The chosen one turns out to be the youngest, out in the field with the sheep, not even invited to the meeting. This passage is good news for anyone who feels overlooked, and a warning for anyone quick to size up others in seconds. Read 1 Samuel 16:7 slowly and ask what God sees in you that you tend to hide or dismiss. Then turn the question outward: who have you written off because of their appearance, background, or age? Today, choose one person you usually overlook, at work, at church, or at home, and give them real attention. Ask a question and listen to the answer without rushing.
Also read
“But the LORD said to Samuel, “Do not consider his appearance or height, for I have rejected him; the LORD does not see as man does. For man sees the outward appearance, but the LORD sees the heart.””
1 Samuel 16:7
Prayer
Father, you see what I cannot. Heal my hurry to judge, and help me to notice the people others overlook.