JUDGING BY APPEARANCES
II Corinthians 5:12
"For we do not commend ourselves again to you, but give you opportunity to boast on our behalf, that you may have a answer for those who boast in appearance and not in heart."
Some scholars think that Paul was short in stature and was not a commanding presence. He himself admitted that he was weak and fearful and his speaking abilities were not very good (I Corinthians 2:1-5). In other words, his external appearances were not very convincing. He did not have outward appearances to brag about. What attracted people was his heart and spirit. I find it so easy to judge people who preach well or sing with professional quality and give them praise, rather than discerning the heart and spirit of their ministries. A charismatic speaker or a good singer may attract people, but they may be proud in their spirits. A poor preacher or an out of tune singer may not appeal aesthetically, but are humbly doing their best to minister. Lord Jesus, help me to look beyond the external appearances to the heart like you do, and praise people who are trying their best to serve you.
TODAY'S PRINCIPLE: External appearances are not as good a criteria for praise as is the person's heart to serve God.
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Have a discerning day. Love you
www.wordpress.com
II Corinthians 5:12
"For we do not commend ourselves again to you, but give you opportunity to boast on our behalf, that you may have a answer for those who boast in appearance and not in heart."
Some scholars think that Paul was short in stature and was not a commanding presence. He himself admitted that he was weak and fearful and his speaking abilities were not very good (I Corinthians 2:1-5). In other words, his external appearances were not very convincing. He did not have outward appearances to brag about. What attracted people was his heart and spirit. I find it so easy to judge people who preach well or sing with professional quality and give them praise, rather than discerning the heart and spirit of their ministries. A charismatic speaker or a good singer may attract people, but they may be proud in their spirits. A poor preacher or an out of tune singer may not appeal aesthetically, but are humbly doing their best to minister. Lord Jesus, help me to look beyond the external appearances to the heart like you do, and praise people who are trying their best to serve you.
TODAY'S PRINCIPLE: External appearances are not as good a criteria for praise as is the person's heart to serve God.
[end]
Have a discerning day. Love you
www.wordpress.com
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