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

Looking Through the Lord's Lenses 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're 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 gruff and tough 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 murderer, he saw passion, leadership ability, and drive. To see as God sees, we need to think about how precious people are in his sight. We need to intentionally introduce ourselves to people we frequently pass by. Think of all the God-given abilities going unnoticed. You will never lock eyes with someone that Jesus didn't die for. So, remember, even when you were 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.