He Sees Your Heart
“But the Lord said to Samuel, 'Do not look on his appearance or on the height of his stature, because I have rejected him. For the Lord sees not as man sees: man looks on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart.'” ~ 1 Samuel 16:7 (ESV)
Do you get intimidated by the talents and gifts of others? I have to admit – I do. I marvel at women who can do it all...Homemade crafts, home backed cookies, homemade clothing. I think it is so cool that women can do that. It seems that God gave me two left hands when it comes to home-made things; well maybe for cooking – I am half decent in that department...
I remember years back I wanted to make a banner for our church to hang in the sanctuary. It seemed easy enough. I checked with a couple of ladies from church, got my supplies and went at it...
Let me tell you: it looks much easier than it is. Of course, I didn't start with a small banner; no it had to be huge. My husband asked me what I was trying to do when I got home with all my supplies under the arm. With a huge smile on my face I explained my vision about a wonderful banner in purple. All he did was smile...
For the next three weeks I was at it. Cutting, sewing by hand (yeah – I don't even have a sewing machine), tears running down my face. I had promised a purple banner, so I was going to make a purple banner...
Sometimes I get so intimidated by others, that I forget that God might not has given me a certain talent. I might not be able to be crafty with my hands, but I have different talents and gifts. I am unique to Him. He equips me with the talents and gifts He sees fit for me. He handpicks us for certain tasks, just like He handpicked David to become Israel's king.
Did I finish the banner? Yes, by His grace I did. It was ready in time to be hung in the sanctuary. Will I ever again volunteer to make a banner...No Way!!! I will leave that to the women who are much more talented than I am and who have sewing machines.
My sweet sisters, God gives all of us talents and gifts to further His kingdom. He knows our hearts that we are willing to serve, so He will supply the gifts and talents that are needed. Follow His lead and don't get intimidated by the gifts and talents of others as I did...
Lord of Heaven and Earth. You know our hearts and willingness to serve You. Sometimes we get intimidated by the gifts and talents of others. Help us to see the ministries that are right for us. And thank You Lord for Your extra measure of grace when we need it. In the precious name of Jesus – Amen.
You can also read some of my thoughts on by personal blog "Sting my Heart"...
Labels: compassion, Faith, heart matters, Iris's Articles, Mercy
posted by eph2810 @ 2:00 AM
7 Comments:
Dear Iris, you are such a sweet blessing.
I guess I am one of the people for whom this post was meant. God directed me to your blog this morning. Thanks. I especially like that verse about man looking on the outside but God looking on the inside.
Mama Bear
Oh Iris - me too (two left hands, that is). And, I often think about the gifts God has given others and wonder why I'm not good at "that." But God has given me my own unique gifts and He has given you some great gifts too - maybe just not making banners :)
Iris...that is so like me...sometimes my mouth gets in gear before my head has thought it completely through! I have made much trouble for myself that way!
What a neat post!!! Yes, we are all unique in His eyes...each made for a purpose that will glorify Him. Bless you---my very busy friend!
This makes me laugh... and squirm! I do things like this for another reason though.I have this belief that I can do anything and I will try. It was only recently (the last couple of years) that I have come to realize that just because I eventually can do something doesn't mean that I should. Other people can do it with hardly any effort. I, on the other hand, can't do it withoug blood, sweat and tears. Some things are better left to those who have the gift.
I love this post and it has been a great reminder to sit back and enjoy life and that means not volunteering myself for everything. Thanks for sharing Iris! You are awesome!
I'll bet there are very few of us who haven't struggled with trying to operate in a gift that we just don't have. I used to believe that a person could do ANYTHING if they put the proper amount of effort into it. Praise God, I have learned to accept that I was made to be a PART of the Body of Christ - not the whole thing! Now I can rejoice with with those who shine in areas where I dare not tread. Talk about freedom! Thanks for the great reminder. (Congrats on finishing the banner! I might not have:))
I can't even tell you how many levels this speaks to me on, Iris!
I'll just give the whole thing a hearty, "Amen, sister..:)"
Lisa
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It is good to hear from you... thank you so very much for leaving a note on the table. That makes us smile!
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