1 Samuel 16:7, "God doesn't look at what people see. People judge by what is on the outside, but the Lord looks at the heart."

Think

How often have we written people off and just looked past them - at the park, at a gas station, at work or even at church? We are all guilty of judging other people's appearance, but God looks at people's hearts and wants us to do the same. Where we see problems, Jesus sees potential. When Jesus met Peter, he didn't look like a refined biblical scholar. He looked like a tough, weathered, no-nonsense fisherman. Yet, Jesus saw courage and fierce loyalty. When Jesus first appeared to Paul, a Pharisee on his way to kill Christians, He didn't see a murderous zealot, He saw fierce passion, leadership ability, and drive. To see as God sees, we must think about how precious people are in His sight. He has purposely placed certain people in our paths. Therefore, we must zoom out and think of all the God-given abilities going unnoticed, and intentionally introduce ourselves. You will never lock eyes with someone who Jesus didn't die for. So, remember, even when you were still covered in sin and shame, Jesus looked at you and loved you! He saw your potential and called you by name.

 

Act

Challenge yourself to connect with someone who has previously flown under your radar. Who do you see on a consistent basis that you've never gotten to know?

 

Pray

Dear Lord, thank You for loving me unconditionally, despite my flaws. I want to love others the way You love me, to see them through Your perspective. Give me the courage, compassion, and drive to connect with people I might otherwise pass by. In Jesus' name, Amen.