Scripture Reading
1 Samuel 16:7b
"The Lord does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart."
Reflection
When Samuel came to anoint one of Jesse's sons as king, he was impressed by the first seven. God was waiting for the youngest, the shepherd, the one nobody thought to invite to the ceremony. God's criteria for significance differ radically from ours. The interior life — what happens between you and God when no one is watching — matters more to him than any outward presentation we can manage.
Prayer for Today
Lord, You know my heart and my innermost thoughts. You see the struggle within me, the battle between mind and heart. I beg of you, O Lord, release me from this anxiety. Let me bask in Your Holiness and remain calm, knowing that You are Lord and Savior. You died for my sins and You will not leave me alone in this dark place. I thank You for Your everlasting love, Amen.
Amen.