But the LORD said to Samuel, “Do not look at his appearance or at his physical stature, because I have refused him. For the LORD does not see as man sees; for man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart.” 1 Samuel 16:7 (NKJV)
Cleaning out my bathroom cabinet the other day, I realized something. I have a ton of beauty products. Over the years, I’ve likely spent more time and money on my appearance than I care to remember and contributed heavily to the billion-dollar beauty market. From creams to mascara, I seem to have purchased enough to help keep the industry healthy. Part of the reason is I am among those who like to enhance their appearance. Who doesn’t want to look younger and prettier? But this verse is a great reminder that our outward appearance doesn’t matter at all to Jesus. He nurtures the beauty in our hearts.
During Jesus’s ministry, He came across groups of people who were concerned with the way they appeared. In Matthew 23, he told the Pharisees, “Woe to you . . . hypocrites! For you are like whitewashed tombs which indeed appear beautiful outwardly but inside are full of dead men’s bones and all uncleanness.” Jesus recognized the deep spiritual deficiencies—ones that only He could fill. And Jesus let them know He didn’t care about their presentation, but rather about the passion of their hearts.
Yes, in my time I have been passionate about my appearance, but I’m most grateful that Jesus only wants to look at and continue to nurture the goodness of my heart.
FAITH STEP: Ask the Lord to give you eyes to see Him in the face of every person you meet.
