Devotional

Appearance vs. Heart

By Roger Lipe

Ready 

“But the Lord said to Samuel, ‘Do not look at his appearance or his stature, because I have rejected him. Man does not see what the Lord sees, for man sees what is visible, but the Lord sees the heart.’” – 1 Samuel 16:7

Set 

How do you judge your teammates’ performances on game day? By their pre-game or by their play during competition? The Bible shares a story of the vast difference between outward appearances and matters of the heart.

Samuel went to a man’s house knowing the next king of Israel would be there, and he was expecting this man to be the tallest, strongest, and brightest of the sons. But the Lord stopped him and clarified His values. Samuel was to look beyond outward appearances and search for the heart of a leader.

People are often fascinated by the players who put on a great show during pre-game and are left wondering why that athlete never sees any playing time. They’re attracted to the outward appearance but can’t see what the coach sees every day in practice.

As you compete, do not fall into the trap of judging by outward appearances. Rather, look into the hearts of your teammates and coaches. See clearly and make wise decisions regarding your games and all of life.

Go 

  1. How do you judge your teammates’ performances on game day?

  2. Do you judge by outward appearances or by their hearts?

  3. How would you like to be judged?

  4. How do you suppose God judges people?

Workout 

John 2:24–25

Luke 16:15

Jeremiah 17:10

Overtime 

Father, thank You for my teammates. I am privileged to be a part of this team and to compete in sport. Please enable me to look at people’s hearts and not simply make judgments by outward appearances. I pray and compete in Jesus’ name. Amen.

Group 
Daily Impact Play, All In
Bible Reference: 
John 2:24-25
Luke 16:15
Jeremiah 17:10