⁷ But the Lord said to Samuel, “Do not look at his appearance or at his physical stature, because I have ^[a]refused him. For^[b] 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)

Our world is one that rewards appearance. We rarely put forth someone who does not meet a certain standard into places of power or celebrity. We look at the outside and often overlook all of the ugliness on the inside. But God sees past all of the superficial. He sees the person within and judges by what is in the heart.

It has been a long time now, but I remember back to my school days. I remember all of those who were “popular”, the attractive or the athletic. I was average in both categories, and I was perfectly ok with that. I believe I did well in life based on my work ethic and values. I always desired people see what was on the inside rather than my stature or standing. Authenticity has always been something I value in others.

The Lord knows the person within and He made each of us in His image, which He finds beautiful no matter what.

Reflect on: Your view of yourself and how others may view you. What matters most, appearance or what is within?