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TODAY’S WORD…

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The Lord doesn’t see things the way you see them.

People judge by outward appearance,

but the Lord looks at the heart.”

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– 1 Samuel 16:7 (NLT)

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REFLECTION…

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It seems that keeping up appearances

is the most important objective in our lives today.

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We want people to evaluate us and appreciate us

by what we look like,

by what we seem to own,

by all kinds of outwardly ways and means

which we seem so keen to show off

so that we can be noticed and accepted

…or so we would like to think!

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We ourselves tend to rate, criticise and judge others in the same manner,

frequently pouring scorn – sometimes privately, sometimes publically –

on those who do not appear to meet our ideal;

who may come from a different social background;

who we may decide to disapprove of, for umpteen reasons.

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But as Christians, we should know better.

We should know that what matters most is what is in the heart.

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Jesus told the Pharisees of His day,

and He still tells us today, that

“the things that are considered of great value by people

are worth nothing in God’s sight.” (Lk 16:15)

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Jesus also warns us:

“Do not judge others, and you will not be judged.

For you will be treated as you treat others.

The standard you use in judging

is the standard by which you will be judged.” (Mt 7:1-2)

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PRAYER…

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My Lord Jesus,

You chose to be born in a humble manger,

rather than in a palace fit for a King.

You were never one for superficiality,

and it was Your unpretentious and loving demeanor

which, till today, leaves me in awe of You

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Because only You know what is in everybody’s heart,

grant O Lord, that I will always strive to love all others

in the manner You taught me

and as I love myself.

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When You look into my heart, Lord,

may it be worthy of Your love.

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Amen.

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REPETITIVE PRAYER FOR TODAY…

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Lord, make my heart worthy of Your love.

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