But the Lord said to Samuel, “Do not look at his appearance or his stature, because I have rejected him. Man does not see what the Lord sees, for man sees what is visible, but the Lord sees the heart.” 1 Samuel 16:7 HCSB
As a youth pastor I emphasized the importance of looking beyond the physical appearance of others. Teens are so caught up in wanting to look like others that they often place an importance on physical appearance. The world places an emphasis on the three “B’s”. 1. Beauty; 2. Brains; and 3. Bucks. The world says a person must look good, be smart, and have money if he is going to be a person of worth and admiration.
This Scripture makes it clear that God does not look at the outward appearance. In fact, he instructed Samuel to not judge the sons of Jesse by their stature and good looks. Saul was tall and handsome, and certainly Samuel must have been looking for someone who looked like Saul to be the new king. When we judge people by their outward appearance, we often overlook their inner qualities. Outward appearances do not reflect what a person is really like or what he is capable of doing. Fortunately, God judges people by their faith and character and not by their outward appearance.
Challenge: Keep a record of the amount of time you spend this week maintaining your outward appearance as compared to the amount of time you spend maintaining and developing your inner character and qualities. Only you and God know your heart.What steps will you take this week to improve and develop your heart’s appearance?