May 13, 14, 2017

Good morning, Hunter,

LIVING FROM THE INSIDE OUT

1 SAMUEL 16:7
But the LORD said to Samuel, “Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The LORD does not look at the things man looks at. Man looks at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart.”

Former pro quarterback Kenny Stabler once said, “In the NFL, there are 25 guys who can throw better than I can. But I can make guys win.” I guess that’s what it comes down to, isn’t it? It is all about being able to win. In the NFL, as in life, content is more valuable than form.

How much attention is paid to packaging in our world? We have all purchased things, brought them home, opened them and discovered the packaging was 75% of the volume.

People have a tendency to value form over content. Most real estate professionals will tell you that on a percentage basis, a new coat of paint will increase a home’s selling price far more than new plumbing will.

This is a trap in which we must refuse to be caught. In the Old Testament, we are reminded God’s priorities are different than ours. God said to Samuel, “The Lord does not look at the things man looks at. Man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.” (1 Samuel 16:7)

We may allow ourselves to be satisfied with good form; such as a handsome family, a nice car, a pretty house, a good job, a respectable religious affiliation, or a dignified manner of worship. God reminds us the content of our life is much more important than surface level appearances. Samuel said, “To obey is better than sacrifice.” (1 Samuel 15:22)

Our continuing challenge is to improve the content of our lives rather than settling for good form. It means we should make it our aim; in our family, in our career and in our relationship with God — to live life from the inside out.

How much of your life is packaging?

How much of your life is content?

Are you living from the inside out?