Posted on April 22, 2025 | Southern Asia Adventist Community Church Devotionals
Bible Verse:
*“For the Lord seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the Lord looketh on the heart.”*
— 1 Samuel 16:7 (KJV)
Ellen G. White Quote:
*“The outward display of religion is of no value unless the heart is devoted to God.”*
— *The Desire of Ages, p. 172*
Reflection
It’s so easy to focus on appearances how people see us, how much we do, or how perfect we seem on the outside. But God sees beyond the surface. He sees the "heart". The verse from 1 Samuel reminds us that while people are quick to judge by what they see, God looks much deeper.
When Samuel was sent to anoint the next king of Israel, he thought he had found the right one just by appearance tall, strong, impressive. But God gently reminded him: “I don’t choose like people do. I see what’s in the heart.”
That’s powerful, isn’t it?
Imagine someone who is quiet and unnoticed at church. Maybe they don’t lead out or speak publicly, but they pray faithfully, care for others, and love Jesus deeply. To God, that kind of heart is precious more than any spotlight.
Or take the story of the widow who gave two small coins at the temple. Others gave large amounts, but Jesus said she gave more because she gave from the heart, not for show. God values sincerity over showmanship.
Ellen G. White puts it plainly: religion that’s just for show means nothing if the heart isn’t right with God.
So ask yourself today:
- Is my service for God rooted in love, or just routine?
- Am I more concerned about what people think or what God sees?
God is not looking for perfect actions. He’s looking for "genuine hearts".