The Daily Devotional
Friday, January 26, 2024
Beyond the Screen:
Friday, January 26, 2024
Beyond the Screen:
A Lesson in Seeing with the Heart
“The Lord does not see as mortals see; they look on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart.”
1 Samuel 16:7 (NRSV)
Introduction
In 1 Samuel 16:7, we find a profound statement: "The Lord does not see as mortals see; they look on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart." This verse speaks to a deeper understanding of how God perceives us, beyond our physical appearance or societal labels. It echoes in various aspects of our lives, including our pursuits and the way we perceive others.
Consider the story of Julie Landsman, a talented French horn player. When she auditioned for the principal French hornist position at New York's Metropolitan Opera Orchestra, her abilities were judged without the bias of her appearance. The auditions were conducted behind a screen, ensuring that only her music spoke for her. Landsman's story is a striking parallel to the Biblical narrative of David's selection as king.
David, unlike his brothers, wasn't chosen for his physical stature or apparent qualifications. God chose David for his heart, his character. Similarly, Landsman was chosen for her skill and musicality, not her gender or appearance. This scenario challenges us, especially as young adults preparing to step into a broader world, to look beyond the superficial.
Reflection
As we stand at the threshold of adulthood, it's crucial to remember that our true value doesn't lie in how others see us or in the credentials we accumulate. It lies in the contents of our hearts—our character, our intentions, our faith. In a world that often judges by outward appearances, be it through social media or first impressions, we are called to see as God sees.
This perspective is not just about self-assessment; it's also about how we view others. Can we look beyond the external and appreciate the intrinsic qualities of those around us? Can we recognize the Julie Landsmans among us, not for how they appear, but for their talent and heart?
Conclusion
As you navigate life's challenges and opportunities, remember that God values character, intent, and willpower above external appearances or accolades. This perspective, beautifully illustrated in Julie Landsman's story and the wisdom of 1 Samuel 16:7, serves as a guiding principle. Embrace a heart that embodies God's values of integrity, kindness, and faith. Such alignment not only brings you closer to God's vision but also empowers you to recognize and honor the true essence of those around you. Keep in mind, it is the depth and strength of our hearts, not our outward appearance, that truly defines who we are.
Prayer
Dear Lord, as we reflect on the lesson of 1 Samuel 16:7 and the inspiring journey of Julie Landsman, we pray for the wisdom to see beyond the surface, just as You do. Guide us to value the heart, character, and intentions of ourselves and others, rather than being swayed by external appearances or societal labels. Grant us the courage to cultivate hearts full of Your virtues—integrity, kindness, and steadfast faith. May our lives resonate with Your divine values, helping us to not only align with Your vision but also to recognize and appreciate the true essence in those we encounter. In Your loving grace, we strive to be lights in this world, illuminating the beauty and strength that lies within each heart. Amen.
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Devotional by: Kenny Sallee, ThM — Deming, NM, USA www.ichthus-dnm.org
The Bible texts are from New Revised Standard Version Bible (NRSV)© 1989, 1993 the Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
Click on the image to delve into the uplifting and soul-stirring devotional…
In 1 Samuel 16:7, we find a profound statement: "The Lord does not see as mortals see; they look on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart." This verse speaks to a deeper understanding of how God perceives us, beyond our physical appearance or societal labels. It echoes in various aspects of our lives, including our pursuits and the way we perceive others.
Consider the story of Julie Landsman, a talented French horn player. When she auditioned for the principal French hornist position at New York's Metropolitan Opera Orchestra, her abilities were judged without the bias of her appearance. The auditions were conducted behind a screen, ensuring that only her music spoke for her. Landsman's story is a striking parallel to the Biblical narrative of David's selection as king.
David, unlike his brothers, wasn't chosen for his physical stature or apparent qualifications. God chose David for his heart, his character. Similarly, Landsman was chosen for her skill and musicality, not her gender or appearance. This scenario challenges us, especially as young adults preparing to step into a broader world, to look beyond the superficial.
Reflection
As we stand at the threshold of adulthood, it's crucial to remember that our true value doesn't lie in how others see us or in the credentials we accumulate. It lies in the contents of our hearts—our character, our intentions, our faith. In a world that often judges by outward appearances, be it through social media or first impressions, we are called to see as God sees.
This perspective is not just about self-assessment; it's also about how we view others. Can we look beyond the external and appreciate the intrinsic qualities of those around us? Can we recognize the Julie Landsmans among us, not for how they appear, but for their talent and heart?
Conclusion
As you navigate life's challenges and opportunities, remember that God values character, intent, and willpower above external appearances or accolades. This perspective, beautifully illustrated in Julie Landsman's story and the wisdom of 1 Samuel 16:7, serves as a guiding principle. Embrace a heart that embodies God's values of integrity, kindness, and faith. Such alignment not only brings you closer to God's vision but also empowers you to recognize and honor the true essence of those around you. Keep in mind, it is the depth and strength of our hearts, not our outward appearance, that truly defines who we are.
Prayer
Dear Lord, as we reflect on the lesson of 1 Samuel 16:7 and the inspiring journey of Julie Landsman, we pray for the wisdom to see beyond the surface, just as You do. Guide us to value the heart, character, and intentions of ourselves and others, rather than being swayed by external appearances or societal labels. Grant us the courage to cultivate hearts full of Your virtues—integrity, kindness, and steadfast faith. May our lives resonate with Your divine values, helping us to not only align with Your vision but also to recognize and appreciate the true essence in those we encounter. In Your loving grace, we strive to be lights in this world, illuminating the beauty and strength that lies within each heart. Amen.
----------------------------
Devotional by: Kenny Sallee, ThM — Deming, NM, USA www.ichthus-dnm.org
The Bible texts are from New Revised Standard Version Bible (NRSV)© 1989, 1993 the Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
Click on the image to delve into the uplifting and soul-stirring devotional…
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