Today is July 27

Grace to all who love our Lord Jesus Christ with an undying love.

Take a moment and quiet yourself. Take a deep breath. Welcome God’s presence. And say, “Come Holy Spirit.”

Today’s reading is from the book of 1st Samuel, chapter 16.

7 But the LORD said to Samuel, “Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The LORD does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart.

Does this scripture encourage you? Or maybe not. Maybe it is easy for you to rely on your own outward appearance as you navigate the world around you. For some, it’s a lot easier to keep up appearances than it is to form one’s heart inclinations in the way of Jesus. The Lord is present to you right now as you enter into prayer. Can you invite him, like the psalmist did, to ‘search your heart’ right now? What’s in there…? What’s the condition of your heart?

Consider the way that God turns things upside down. He uses that which is weak, to shame that which is strong. He sees strength in weakness. And he looks at the inside, not the outside of us. How do you most often look at people? Do you share the upside down vision of God in the way you consider those around you?

Do you have a sense of the Lord’s presence with you right now? What do you think He sees, swirling around in your heart? Take time with Him this morning. Talk to God about your heart. And then be still, and listen for his voice.

Music Credit:
Prayer of Consecration - Vineyard Worship (YouTube)