I would like to speak from the heart today and open up with the story of David when He was chosen to be King.
1 Samuel 16:6-13 AMP
So it happened, when they had come, he looked at Eliab [the eldest son] and thought, “Surely the Lord’s anointed is before Him.” But the Lord said to Samuel, “Do not look at his appearance or at the height of his stature, because I have rejected him.
For the Lord sees not as man sees; for man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.”
Then Jesse called Abinadab and had him pass before Samuel. But Samuel said, “The Lord has not chosen this one either.” Next Jesse had Shammah pass by. And Samuel said, “The Lord has not chosen him either.” Jesse had seven of his sons pass before Samuel. But Samuel said to Jesse, “The Lord has not chosen [any of] these.” Then Samuel said to Jesse, “Are all your sons here?” Jesse replied, “There is still one left, the youngest; he is tending the sheep.” Samuel said to Jesse, “Send word and bring him; because we will not sit down [to eat the sacrificial meal] until he comes here.” So Jesse sent word and brought him in. Now he had a ruddy complexion, with beautiful eyes and a handsome appearance. The Lord said [to Samuel], “Arise, anoint him; for this is he.” Then Samuel took the horn of oil and anointed David in the presence of his brothers; and the Spirit of the Lord came mightily upon David from that day forward.”
The heart and the intent of the heart are very important to God!
Unfortunately, only God can know what is really inside each individual! Many times we encounter people that focus on the motions of looking good on the outside but the real intent of the heart is a different story! Even in relationships someone can seem to check all the boxes but do we truly know their heart? People can put their best foot forward and project what they want people to see but in all reality the One to whom it really counts knows the truth!
Psalm 7:9 NIRV
God, you always do what is right. You look deep down inside the hearts and minds of people. Bring to an end the terrible things sinful people do. Make godly people safe.
Let’s make it a point to be real with ourself, others and God! What good is it to put on a facade and pretend? We need to be genuine and real with each other.
When we want to be considered by God to do anything for His Kingdom, know that He is looking at the heart! It’s not perfection that qualifies us or our God given talents, it’s the heart! Let’s all do a heart check to see where we stand.
Psalm 19:14 NIRV
Lord, may these words of my mouth please you. And may these thoughts of my heart please you also. You are my Rock and my Redeemer.
Speaking from the heart!