Today's Scripture
"… People judge by outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart." 1 Samuel 16:7 NLT
Thoughts for Today
It is said that you can't judge a book by its cover. You have to examine what is inside.
Isn't it the same with people? When we judge them by what is outside, we can miss what they are really all about. And yet, how often do we make quick judgments about individuals based only on what we see …
"Look at that … that girl has three earrings in her nose! She must be wild and weird." … "Look at those tattoos. I'll bet he's never set a foot in church." … "I can't understand that religious fanatic. He is more heavenly minded than earthly good."
Because of what we see on the outside, we judge, reject or just ignore "those kinds of people." We never try to get to know them. And so we may miss an opportunity to encourage … to help … or even to be blessed ourselves by the good inside of them that we'll never see.
Aren't you glad Jesus doesn't look just at the outside of us? That he cares enough to see what's really going on inside?
Consider this…
The next time you come into contact with someone who looks or acts a little different, ask God for Christ-like vision. Spend some time getting to know the individual. you might be in for some pleasant surprises!
Prayer
Father, thank you for looking at my heart, for caring enough to see the "real me." Help me to do the same when I look at others. In Jesus' name …
These thoughts were drawn from…
One Nation Under God: Toward Race Reconciliation. This study shows that the foundational truth for the entire process of overcoming prejudice is oneness in Christ. This guide discusses the barriers and shows how to make Christ visible through love in action. It also offers the way to strengthen and bond relationships. Note: This curriculum was written especially for small groups and we encourage people to use it that way. However, it can also be used effectively as a personal study for individuals or couples.
Visit our website to read more about this study and learn more about Living Free small groups.
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