SUBMERGEഉദാഹരണം

Embracing the Heart of God

In our human nature, we tend to judge and evaluate others based on their external attributes, social status, or physical appearance. Often, we are quick to form opinions and assumptions about people, mistakenly believing that outward appearances reveal the true nature of a person's heart. God's perspective is entirely different. He sees beyond the superficial and searches deeply into the very core of our being.

In 1 Samuel 16, we find the prophet Samuel searching for the future king of Israel. As Samuel observes Jesse's sons, he notices their physical stature and impressive qualities. Yet, God gently reminds Samuel that He looks beyond the surface. God's vision looks beyond the façade of physical appearance and reveals a person's true nature - their heart.

We know that the gospel's transformative power includes a transformative work of God’s grace in the human heart. This act of God's grace is not merely a superficial change but a profound inward transformation that reshapes our desires, motives, and character. God is not interested in our outward appearance or achievements; instead, He longs for a fully surrendered heart.

This truth should absolutely impact how we view ourselves and others. Instead of focusing on external appearances, we must allow God’s grace to shape hearts pleasing to Him. Our true worship and devotion to God are found in the depths of our hearts. When our hearts are aligned with His purposes, His transformative power brings about a genuine change that influences every aspect of our lives.

Finally, this passage challenges us to adopt God's perspective when interacting with others. Through His power, we can learn to see beyond physical appearances and recognize the potential for Godliness in every person we encounter. Just as God saw the potential in the youngest and least likely of Jesse's sons, David, we must extend grace, love, and encouragement to those around us, recognizing that God's transformative work can happen in the most unexpected hearts.

How does this act of transformative grace happen? Only through prayer and complete dependence on our Savior. Start today. Prayerfully seek God's guidance to transform your heart and align it with His desires. May our lives be a testament to the power of God's grace as we strive to see others through His eyes and offer them the same transformative love He has poured out for us.

Gracious God, help us to see beyond the external and to fix our gaze upon the condition of our hearts. Transform us from within to align our desires and motives with Your will. Teach us to see others as You see them, embracing the potential for godliness in each person we encounter. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

Reflection:

What desires do you have for your future? Are there things you need to do to align these desires with what God wants for you?

Throughout your day, as you encounter other people, ask God to help you to see them as He sees them. In what ways do you treat them differently? What do you begin to see that you missed before?

Misty Jaggers
SNU Class of 2001
Director, New Student Institute