FROM WHO DO YOU SEEK VALIDATION?

1 SAMUEL 16:6-13

Meditation verse:

“for the Lord does not see as man sees; for man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart” (1 Samuel 16:7).

‘Do not judge a book by its cover’, is a common phrase, which portrays the fact that the quality of an object cannot be determined by what it looks like. I have on several occasions, cracked open an egg which looked good on the outside, only to discover that it was rotten inside. I know a lady who suffered severe physical and mental abuse from her spouse who was tall, handsome, and very well educated. When God sent Samuel to anoint the one who would replace Saul as king, Samuel picked Eliab, based on his physical appearance, but God said no.

The world places premium on status, wealth, and physical appearance, all of which are transient and do not guarantee happiness. “Charm is deceitful, and beauty is passing, but a woman (person) who fears the Lord, she shall be praised” (Proverbs 31:30). That which is outward will eventually fade away or diminish. God looks at the heart of a man. He focuses on what is inside you: your salvation, vision, dreams, and the Holy Spirit in you. These are the weightier matters; these are the things that endure.

Why then do you seek validation from the world? Why do you define your selfworth by the standards of the world? Making important life decisions based on things that are ephemeral is setting yourself up for failure. Learn to seek validation from God in everything you do. Are you choosing a life partner, building a home, raising your kids, starting a job, or building a business? Ask God to validate your choice. Nothing is too insignificant or important to seek His guidance. “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths” (Proverbs 3:5-6).

IN HIS PRESENCE is written by Oke Chinye.
Have you asked Jesus Christ to come into your heart?

He says in Mathew 11:28, “come unto me all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” He longs to give you rest."

Would you like to do so now? Here’s a prayer you can say:
Dear Jesus, I believe that You died to save me from all my sins. Today, I invite you into my heart and I accept you as my Lord and Saviour. Please forgive all my sins and help me to live my life for You.

If you prayed this prayer, send me an email at rockteachingministry@gmail.com

I would love to pray with you personally and send you a copy of my book; ‘Living the Life’ to encourage you as you begin your new life in Christ.