“People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.” (1 Sam. 16:7)
Expanded Passage: 1 Samuel 16:6-13
Private Desmond Doss did not seem to be a strong soldier, based on appearance. In the movie depicting his life, Private Doss’ sergeant compared his physique to a stalk of corn. Later in the movie he is referred to as “Doss the coward” because of his personal beliefs. However, Desmond Doss, in the heat of battle, went on to save the lives of approximately seventy-five men and was eventually awarded the Medal of Honor. Private Desmond Doss serves as a wonderful example of bravery, courage, and determination in the face of all odds, regardless of physical appearance.
God called Samuel to anoint David as the next king of Israel. By physical appearance and age, David would not have been the choice by human standards at the time. Many questioned the decision. However, our God does not look at outward appearance but instead focuses on the condition of the heart.
As Christians and Christian leaders, we need to consider the condition of our hearts. We must ask ourselves: Am I living a life that models after Jesus Christ? What is the condition of my soul? We can look our best on the outside and fool the world into believing what we want them to believe. But like the young king David, God looks at our hearts and knows the truth.
Evaluate the condition of your heart.
Andrew Christman, a proud veteran of the US Army, serves as a hospital chaplain in Columbia, South Carolina. He is a graduate of Wesley Seminary and an ordained Wesleyan pastor.
© 2024 Wesleyan Publishing House. Reprinted from Light from the Word. Used by permission. Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®.
