1 Samuel 16:7 – But the Lord said to Samuel, Look not on his appearance or at the height of his stature, for I have rejected him. For the Lord sees not as man sees; for man looks on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart. (AMP)
Many years ago, it was fashionable to have a tiny container, often in the shape of a heart, made of silver or gold and attached to a chain around one's neck. Within the closed, ornamental, hinged container was a picture of a loved one or a lock of their hair — an item so precious that it was rarely shared with another. The ornament was carefully locked and concealed under clothing close to the heart. Quite recently, I discovered such a locket amongst my sister's belongings, and nestled within the container was a picture of her loved one.
I have discovered that it does not seem to matter how much we try to display to the world the very best side of our nature and disposition. So often we are misunderstood. Our actions are misunderstood; our words are misunderstood. Try as we might to backtrack and reconstruct the scene and put it into perspective with those involved, it seems to be an impossible task.
I am so glad the Bible is so down-to-earth! It tells it like it is! Guided and directed by the gracious Holy Spirit, the words appear in our text: "The Lord sees not as man sees; for man looks on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart."
Locked within our heart is the real meaning of our actions and words, revealed only to the most important person in our lives — our heavenly Father. He sees our desires and motives, flawed as they are.
Prayer: Our gracious heavenly Father, may we this day endeavour to display our very best to those around us — regardless of being misunderstood. May we try, with the aid and guidance of the gracious Holy Spirit, to be the epitome of a Christ-like personality. We pray this in the authority of Your Son, Christ Jesus. Amen.
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