Character

“But the Lord said unto Samuel, Look not on his countenance, or on the height of his stature; because I have refused him: for the Lord seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the Lord looketh on the heart.”—1 Samuel 16:7

It is so hard to get past a first impression when we meet someone new. Especially if that person makes a less than stellar impression. We aren’t supposed to judge people based on appearance; however, humans seem to have a hard time with that. I usually try to follow my dogs lead on things. They have a much better instinct when it comes to perceiving people. 

Even the prophet Samuel struggled with allowing the outer man to sway his opinion. When the people of Israel cried out to the Lord for a king, God permitted Samuel to anoint Saul. By human standards, Saul met all the criteria for a leader. However, he did not have a pure heart before the Lord. 

After several disappointments, God rejected Saul and sent Samuel to anoint one of the sons of Jesse as His chosen king. Once again, Samuel judged the quality of Israel’s future king by outward appearance. Not inner attitude and motive of heart. When at last, the youngest son of Jesse stood before him, Samuel still saw a shepherd boy, but the Lord saw his heart. 

God alone can read the heart, attitudes, and motives of a person. He isn’t influenced by outward show or good works. Appearances can be deceptive, but the man or woman who loves the Lord with all their heart, mind, and strength will satisfy God’s heart. 

As believers, we should strive to reflect Jesus. Our thoughts and minds can be influenced by either our old sin nature or new life in Christ. We may be able to fool other people, but we will never deceive the Lord. He alone knows the intent of our hearts. Let us endeavor to see others through God’s eyes.

Dear Lord,

Thank You for reminding me to not rely on outward appearances. Help me see others through Your eyes.

Life Interrupted

“Let, I pray thee, thy merciful kindness be my comfort, according to thy word unto thy servant.” – Psalm 119:76

There is a saying that states, “If you live long enough, you have to deal with change.” Some changes are sneaky. As we age, our hair turns gray or leaves altogether, new wrinkles add character to our faces, and our joints stiffen with use.

There are also the dramatic changes. Those that alter our life journey and may cause us to question ourselves or even God. Life as we know it will never be the same. Sometimes we must begin again from scratch. I call these ‘Life Interruptions.’

Most people will experience a life interruption several times. Job changes, health changes, marriage, children, or a death in the family will cause a life interruption. We seem to adjust easily to the happy changes in our lives. But what about those that cause doubt, fear, or depression? Where do you look for reassurance and consolation? The Lord is the only source for true comfort.

Recently, I experienced a life interruption. I required back surgery and there were unexpected complications. My hospital stay lasted two and one-half months. My dachshunds had to be fostered by friends during that time. They also experienced life interruptions.

Our journey is different now. Adaptations are being made for healing physically and mentally. My dogs seek reassurance from me through belly rubs, ear scratches, and lap time. I find my comfort with God. He provides mercy and hope. As we come through the trials of life interruptions, we can be sure of these four things:
● God keeps His promises.
● We will come through this with a firmer faith.
● Friends and Family may not understand all you are going through, but God does.
● Our trial can be an encouragement to others.

Dear Lord,
     Thank you for walking beside me and giving comfort and mercy through my life journey. May I encourage others to look toward You.