Read the Bible in One Year: OT – 1 Samuel 15-16 NT – Luke 10:25-42
1 Samuel 16:7 – “But the Lord said to Samuel, ‘Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The Lord does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.'”
God knows and sees the depths of my heart like no one!
Consider the story of David, the youngest son of Jesse. Samuel the prophet is visiting and has invited Jesse’s family to the sacrifice. However, David is not even there. It is only when asked if all his sons were here, Jesse replies “There is still the youngest,†“He is tending the sheep.†David had very low regard among his own family. His father didn’t even mention him by name. He was not even invited to the sacrificial feast. He was only called to come because Samuel insisted on it. In the eyes of his family, David was not significant.
David may have been overlooked, deemed insignificant and unworthy of being anointed as the future king. But God saw something entirely different. He saw a heart that was loyal, devoted, and seeking after Him. Despite David’s flaws and weaknesses, God chose him, acknowledging the authenticity of his heart.
God often chooses unlikely people to do His work, so that everyone knows the work is God’s work, not man’s work. “You may not be intellectual or well thought of in your family circle; you may be despised by others for your faith in Christ. Perhaps you had only a little share in the love of your parents, as David did. But remember that those who are rejected of men often become beloved of the Lord.†(Redpath)
How incredible it is to know that the God who created us, who sustains us, and who intimately knows every intricate detail of our being, sees straight into the very core of who we are. The Lord’s vision is not clouded by external facades or societal expectations. He looks beyond our flaws and failures, beyond our successes and achievements, to the genuine state of our hearts.
God knows us intimately: God intimately knows every aspect of our hearts, including our thoughts, actions, and even the words we are about to speak (Psalm 139:1-4).
God knows our inner motives: God examines our inner motivations, going beyond external actions. He assesses our intentions, desires, and the true reasons behind our choices (Proverbs 21:2)
God knows our emotional state: God sees the depths of our emotions and understands our sorrows, grief, and pain. He draws near to comfort and heal those who are hurting (Psalm 34:18).
God knows our spiritual condition: God examines our hearts to discern our spiritual condition. He sees the true state of our faith, our devotion, and our relationship with Him (Jeremiah 17:10).
God knows even our unspoken prayers: God understands the deepest longings of our hearts. Even when we struggle to articulate our needs, the Holy Spirit intercedes on our behalf (Romans 8:26-27).
God knows if our worship is true: God seeks genuine worship from the depths of our hearts. He desires worship that arises from a sincere and authentic love for Him (John 4:23-24)
The truth is we are seen, known, and loved by the One who matters most. He knows if our hearts are authentic. We don’t need to strive to impress God. What a humbling, comforting thought!
As this truth takes root in the depths of our hearts, may we strive to cultivate a heart that delights in God, a heart of worship, that seeks His will above all else, surrendering our pretenses, allowing Him to shape our character from the inside out..
Ponder
Are there any areas of my life where I have been tempted to compare myself with others based on external measures, rather than recognizing that God sees and values the uniqueness of my heart?
How does the truth that God knows and sees the depths of my heart impact my daily life and choices? In what ways can I lean into His loving knowledge and guidance?
Reflecting on the story of David, how does the reminder that God often chooses unlikely individuals for His purposes encourage me to embrace my identity and worth as seen through His eyes?
Preethi Jacob is the author of the yearlong devotional At the Potter’s Wheel, Day by Day. Her journey includes teaching a Bible Study Fellowship class, teaching and leading the Sunday School ministry in her church, leading Bible studies, besides counselling young women. She serves on the Global Mission Team of the United Bible Societies and lives in Bangalore, India with her husband and two young adult children.
Jesus reached out to everyone, breaking down social barriers. Let’s follow His example and extend compassion to those in need. How can you show compassion today?
In our spiritual journey, let’s be wary of prioritizing man-made traditions over God’s word. Jesus teaches us that authenticity and heart condition matter more than mere appearances.
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