I recently went to Chicago for a conference. As always the windy city lived up to its name. It is definitely a city that is constantly moving. Chicago definitely operates at a much different speed then I do. This girl operates at a much slower pace.
As always I like to look out the window to see what is around our hotel. The view was interesting in that directly across from our hotel was an office building. I could stand in my room and watch these people work. I found myself wondering what kind of work they were doing. Were they in a position of authority? It wasn’t long that my thoughts began to go much deeper with what I was seeing. I know sounds a little creepy doesn’t it? I really am not a stalker, I promise. I like to people watch, but for some reason in that moment I lingered a little longer. I began to look at the items on her desk, supposing the pictures of her family or loved ones were proudly being displayed. So many questions about this one individual. I wonder does she go to church?
I wondered what kind of life they had when their work was done and they would leave their desk to go to their home. It wasn’t long that the Holy Spirit brought to my remembrance the scripture:
“But the LORD said unto Samuel, Look not on his countenance, or on the height of his stature; because I have refused him: for the LORD seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the LORD looketh on the heart.” 1 Sam. 16:7
The Holy Spirit prompted me, like only He can, to check myself in asking when others look at my life what do they see? Are they seeing the operation of the Fruit of the Spirit in my life? Are they seeing my flesh rising up with no sign of grace or mercy? Do they see love and forgiveness? Is there any detection of Jesus at all?
Moreover, how many times have I looked at someone simply based on their outward appearance. I’m not talking about their clothes, hair, makeup,etc. What I am talking about is their choices, words or actions. How often have we been so quick to categorize others just by what we see them do? Yes, I know we shall be known by our “Fruit” but sometimes someone can just have a really hard day. We have not walked in anyone else’s shoes but our own. We typically want grace and mercy extended to us, but fall short in giving it to others.
Lord , help me to see others through the lens of your love, your grace and your mercies. Father, I am so thankful that you look at my heart and not my outward appearance. Help me to be obedient to align my actions and my heart with yours. Especially, Lord, help me to be an extension of your love to those who are hurting.Let it be my hearts cry that when others see my life that they see you. Only In You, #ButGod
Great reminder for all of us!