The Heart of the Matter

But the LORD said to Samuel, “Do not look on his appearance of on the height of his stature…” For the LORD sees not as man sees: man looks on the outward appearance, but the LORD looks on the heart. 1 Samuel 16:7

How often do we judge another person’s strength by our weakness? How often do we look at our own failings and think that everyone else has it all-together? We can be quick to measure others against the struggles we know so well in ourselves. When we feel weak, insecure, or uncertain, it’s easy to look around and imagine that everyone else is somehow confident and certain of what they’re doing.

Through social media, real-life conversation, and even with church family, we can often only feel able to show the parts of ourselves that we deem acceptable. We hide our deep concerns, our flawed thoughts, and the things we feel are too complicated. Yet, you can be sure, if you are doing that, so is everyone else – to some degree or other. Behind every bright “I’m good, thanks, how are you?” is a heart that has known disappointment, fear, or failure. We all wear masks some days, and they might work in fooling others but none of them fool God.

1 Samuel 16:7 reminds us that God sees what’s real. He sees right through the mask and loves us as we are, which is both freeing and humbling. It frees us from pretending and humbles us to consider that the person we envy for their confidence might actually be praying for the strength to make it through the day.

There are none of us who have it all together. The air-brushed image we see of others isn’t real, for we are all flawed, but graciously, we are all found perfect through Christ.

Prayer:
Lord, help me to see others—and myself—with your eyes. Strip away the masks I wear out of fear or pride. Teach me to be honest before you and gentle toward others, knowing we all carry hidden burdens. Thank you that you see my heart and love me completely. Amen.