“Man does not see what the Lord sees, for man sees what is visible, but the Lord sees the heart.” — 1 Samuel 16:7b
“Too small…too short…can’t play…can’t survive…can’t make it in the NFL.” Who were the so-called experts talking about? It was Buffalo Bills quarterback, Doug Flute. He was too small in the estimation of many NFL scouts. Yet, in the Canadian Football League, Doug Flute is considered to be the best player in CFL history, winner of six Most Outstanding Player awards in eight years, quarterback of three Gray Cup champions, holder of most of the league’s passing records (41,355 career passing yards and 270 passing touchdowns).
Who would have ever thought that God would choose a shepherd boy to be king of Israel? “He’s too small! He’s too short! Too…too something! Why, he can’t be king!” Yet that is exactly what the Lord did. God chose David, the youngest, the least likely of Jesse’s sons, because, “man sees what is visible, but the LORD sees the heart” (1 Sm 16:7b).
God saw something special in David that others couldn’t see. He saw that David’s heart was a godly heart. And that’s why David was God’s choice for king, because he “ found a man loyal to Him” (1 Sm 13:14). People are often preoccupied with their outward appearance, clothes, or hairstyle. But to God, the condition of the heart is most important. “What about your heart?” He asks. “Is it right with Me?”
Today God is looking for people He can use in His work. He is looking for someone with a godly heart. This is His heart’s desire: “If only they had such a heart to fear Me and keep all My commands, so that they and their children will prosper forever” (Dt 5:29).
1. Why does God put so much stock in your heart condition?
2. What does it mean to be a person after God’s own heart?
3. How is your heart condition?
Extra Reading: 1 Samuel 16:6–13; Matthew 16:19–24
Lord, may my heart be Yours and bring You honor and glory because of my obedience to Your Word. Amen.
About the Author:
Coach Pat Street is the FCA Huddle Coach at River Valley High School in Marion, Ohio. If you'd like to receive his weekly “God’s Coaching Tip" e-mail Coach Street at coachpatstreet@timeoutsports.org. (If you have e-mailed and have not received a “tip” please e-mail again as some servers view the Coaching Tip as spam.)