What’s in Your Heart

I washed my car yesterday and today I had a shock. As I got out of my car, I noticed a big scratch in the newly washed surface. I didn’t know if it was there before the wash and was not visible, or if someone had deliberately scratched it today. I decided to put some spit on my finger and rub the scratch to see how deep it went. To my surprise, the scratch wiped right off. There must have been some dirt or soap that dripped down the side. What a pleasant relief. Isn’t funny how much focus we put on the outward appearance. I need to clean the inside of the car, but I was concerned about the outside. When I lived in Washington state, there were many people there that were more concerned about having a beautifully landscaped exterior of the house, than having much on the inside. The saddest commentary is on people's lives that are high maintenance on the outside, but the inside is empty, or worse yet, filled with undesirable things. I can’t help but think of Samuel when he was called by God to anoint who would become the next king. He was told to go to Jesse’s place and God would show which one of his sons was to be anointed. The first son looked to be a handsome and strong warrior. Samuel was sure this was the man. God said, “No”. There were a number of other sons, and each time Samuel saw them, God said, “No”. After all the sons, God had not accepted any. Samuel asked, “Are these all your sons?” Jesse said he had one more, a young boy that was shepherding the sheep. When Samuel saw him, God said, “Yes”. God also said, “Man looks at the outward appearance, but God looks at the heart”. Sometimes we are so concerned about giving a good impression (outwardly) that we forget to take care of the inside in a godly way. What is more important to you? Your physical appearance or the condition of your heart? I’ve heard there are those that spend a lot of time getting ready in the morning. I wonder how many of those spend even a fraction of that time with God in prayer, in reading the Bible, and in worship. The next time you are tempted to judge a person by their outward appearance, pause and consider what is in their heart. Some of the best people I know have a rough exterior. Father, give me eyes to truly see the people around me for who they are and not just how they look. Give me loving heart. Amen