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.” – 1 Samuel 16:7 (NIV)

Look Upon The Heart

When God was preparing to install a new king to replace Saul, he sent Samuel out to inform the new king of His plan. When Samuel found the correct household, he immediately went to the son of Jesse that looked the most like a king, a commander, a leader.

However, God immediately let’s Samuel know that physical appearance is not part of the plan. The Lord looks at the heart, not the outward appearance. Of course, we know He chose the small, rosey-cheeked David to lead His people.

As I watch the NFL combine, I see all of the athletes being measured by their strength, speed, and physique. They are all being judged on physical attributes that have shown to indicate one’s ability on the football field. For many of them, these measurements will determine how (and if) their NFL career will begin.

Whether you are an athlete, a student, a parent, or a missionary, God does not want you to let the opinions of others influence your willingness to seek His plan. People may tell you that you are too small, too weak, not smart enough, under-prepared, or simply not ready. And they may even be right.

But be confident is knowing that God gave you the precise abilities that you will need for the work He has planned for you. Read, pray, seek God and ask Him to reveal His plan for you. Let your praise for the Lord drown out the noise of those that tell you that you are not enough.

But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. (2 Corinthians 12:9)

– Jamie Boggs

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