What's Inside Matters Most

What do the following things have in common: new clothes, pens, and a calculator? They all point to a new school year, right?! I remember the excitement of going back to school. I have to admit that shopping for clothes was my personal favorite. Searching for the perfect pair of shoes was right up there, too. With each new year, I was determined to look my best, and yes, even to try my hardest.

As I look back on the years spent in school and college, I was interested in portraying the right image. Can anyone identify? I wanted to fit in and be accepted by my peers. Hours were spent making sure hair and make-up were just so. I put a premium on my outward appearance, not realizing the importance of what was on the inside.

The words of 1 Samuel put things in proper perspective, "But the Lord said unto Samuel, Look not on his countenance, or on the height of his stature; because I have refused him: for the Lord seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the Lord looketh on the heart," (1 Samuel 16:7; KJV). God knows that what's really important is what's on the inside. He's quick to reveal the heart that's pleasing to Him, "...Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy mind. This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself," (Matthew 22:37-39).

A true friend demonstrates care and concern, is a good listener and provides encouragement when it's needed. A friend is honest - sharing the truth in love, even when it's not popular.  These characteristics are evident in the person who has true beauty - a beauty that is more than skin deep. When I realize it's not about me, but it's all about the Lord and loving others His way, I'm on the right track. Instead of trying to FIND the right friend, my job is to concentrate on cultivating the characteristics that allow me to BE a good friend!

  

A new school year, or even another day at the office, is the perfect opportunity to focus on the needs of others. Let God's Word guide you, "A friend loveth at all times..." (Proverbs 17:17).  And you'll be sure to point them to an all-sufficient Savior!

Do you tend to focus on outward appearance rather than what's on the inside? How can you be a better friend?

Prayer: Heavenly Father, Thank You for reminding me that what's inside matters most. Help me to develop the characteristics of a true friend, and point others to You. In Jesus' name, Amen.

*I'm hosting over at Living by Grace today. Come join in the discussion!

Seasons of Life

School is winding down. Another year has passed. Soon each graduate will don cap and gown, march onto the stage, and receive a well-earned diploma. A thrilling time. A time for reflection. A time for celebration.

One season of life has been completed and another is about to begin. The excitement of venturing out for the first time is mixed with a twinge of apprehension about the future. Countless decisions vie for attention. Which college to attend? What major to choose? Where to work? Who to date?

I remember heading off to college with many of these questions swirling around in my mind. Not a single one takes God by surprise. His Word offers help and guidance for every season of life. "Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths," (Proverbs 3:5-6; KJV). Whether poised on the brink of leaving home for the first time, or dropping your high-school graduate off on campus, the Heavenly Father's point is clear: don't try to figure everything out, bring each concern to Me, and trust Me to guide your every step.

Look back on your life. Take a look at God's track record. Has He ever failed you? If He's brought you this far, won't He continue to lead you? Let His Word encourage you: "...I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee," (Hebrews 13:5b). He has a purpose and a plan for your life. "For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the Lord, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end," (Jeremiah 29:11).

As you yield to Him, be aware of His work in your life. Remember Joseph? The one whose brothers sold him into slavery? Despite his difficult circumstances, he submitted himself to the Lord with amazing results. Over and over we're told that other's noticed the hand of God on Joseph's life. (Genesis 39:3, 21; 41:38). Eventually the Lord allowed Joseph to become second in command in the land of Egypt, and to be reconciled with his family.

Life can be exciting, but it can also be intimidating. Remember that God loves you and is in control. Seek His guidance and then follow the path He lays out for you. Praise Him when He uses you to point others to Him. No matter what season of life you're in, look forward with anticipation to the unique plan God has for you! And celebrate!