"One Year Bible" Old Testament History Passage
I Samuel 15:1-16:23
"But the Lord said to Samuel, 'Do not look at his appearance or at his physical stature, because I have refused him. For the Lord does not see as man sees; for man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.'" I Samuel 16:7 (NKJV)
Saul had failed as king. The Lord withdrew His blessing from Israel's first king because of "incomplete obedience." Saul partially did God's will (which was equivalent to TOTALLY rebelling against God).
Samuel was commissioned to go anoint a new king. The tendency is always to judge capability by outward indicators. That's really how Saul rose to kingship. As Samuel looked at the seven sons of Jesse, he once again leaned toward selecting the one who looked the part.
God saw things more clearly. A strong outward appearance may mask a weak insider life. God looks at the heart. Another word for heart is CHARACTER. This amounts to passion merged with integrity - firey dedication united with honesty and stability.
God is looking today for such people. He cares nothing for flashy showmanship. He loves hearts of sincerity and focus.
"Lord, today we give you our hearts."
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