IMPRESSIONS
IMPRESSIONS CAN WE TRUST IMPRESSIONS?
BIBLE READING: 1 Samuel 16:1-13
KEY BIBLE VERSE: The LORD said to Samuel, “Don’t judge by his appearance or height, for I have rejected him. The LORD doesn’t make decisions the way you do! People judge by outward appearance, but the LORD looks at a person’s thoughts and intentions.” (1 Samuel 16:7)
OUTWARD IMPRESSIONS CAN BE MISLEADING.
Saul was tall and handsome; he was an impressive-looking man. Samuel may have been trying to find someone who looked like Saul to be Israel’s next king, but God warned him against judging by appearance alone. When people judge by outward appearance, they may overlook quality individuals who lack the particular physical qualities society currently admires. Appearance doesn’t reveal what people are really like or what their true value is.
GOD ALWAYS LOOKS BEYOND MERE OUTWARD IMPRESSIONS.
Fortunately, God judges by faith and character, not appearances. And because only God can see on the inside, only he can accurately judge people. Most people spend hours each week maintaining their outward appearance; they should do even more to develop their inner character. While everyone can see your face, only you and God know what your heart really looks like. What steps are you taking to improve your heart’s attitude?
BIBLE READING: Luke 14:7-14
KEY BIBLE VERSE: The proud will be humbled, but the humble will be honored. (Luke 14:11)
FALSE IMPRESSIONS WILL CRUMBLE SOONER OR LATER.
Jesus advised people not to rush for the best places at a feast. People today are just as eager to raise their social status, whether by being with the right people, dressing for success, or driving the right car. Whom do you try to impress? Rather than aiming for prestige, look for a place where you can serve. If God wants you to serve on a wider scale, he will invite you to take a higher place.
BIBLE READING: Luke 16:1-18
KEY BIBLE VERSE: He said to them, “You like to look good in public, but God knows your evil hearts. What this world honors is an abomination in the sight of God.” (Luke 16:15)
OUR IMPRESSIONS DON’T FOOL GOD.
The Pharisees acted piously to get praise from others, but God knew what was in their hearts. They considered their wealth to be a sign of God’s approval. God detested their wealth because it caused them to abandon true spirituality. Though prosperity may earn people’s praise, it must never substitute for devotion and service to God.