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 man looks at. Man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.”

I Samuel 16:7

In I Samuel 16:1-7, we read that God looks at the heart, not the outward appearance. God is not a respecter of persons. David was the least likely of Jesse’s sons to be selected to be king; however, God was looking at his heart and he was chosen to be king of all of Israel. Rahab was earnestly willing to help the Israelite spies because she recognized and acknowledged that their God was sovereign. (Joshua 2:9-11) God saw her heart and He worked through her to protect and save Israel’s spies. Rahab remained faithful to God’s instruction given to her by the Israelite spies. Through her faithfulness, she and those in her household were saved. The Lord continues to search for those who have faithful hearts and are willing to be open to knowing and following His ways. God works through ordinary people. He especially gives power and grace to those who are willing to acknowledge their sins and their weaknesses. In II Corinthians 12:7-10, Paul describes his weaknesses as a “thorn in his flesh,” and yet God used Him mightily. God looks at the heart, and He pours out His grace on humble hearts.

As you examine your life, are you able to see your weaknesses as an opportunity for the Lord to use you? Do you seek to have a humble servant’s heart in all that you do? God is looking for this type of person to use – ordinary people like you and me – but extraordinary in submission to God.

Heavenly Father,

I have looked at my life as ordinary and wondered if You could use me. I have seen my weaknesses as obstacles to serving You. I pray that You will give me a humble heart to serve You daily as You see fit. I am Yours. My life belongs to You.

In Jesus’ name, Amen