It’s What’s Inside That Matters
In Matthew 5, we get to read about one of Jesus’ most famous teachings, the Sermon on the Mount. In this chapter, Jesus does NOT teach about methods, or “how-to’s” like 5-steps on how to do something. But instead Jesus focuses on heart matters, and on what is inside of us. He talks about the poor in spirit, a mourning heart, the meek, those who hunger and thirst for righteousness (heart for God), the merciful, the pure in heart, the peacemakers, those persecuted because of righteousness. Jesus helps us see that he is concerned with your inward appearance, not your outward appearance. It is what is inside of you that matters.
We can find parallels in the old testament. In 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 people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart.” Clearly Jesus looks at the heart and who we are on the inside. And if that is what matters to God, shouldn’t we look more at those things in our human relationships as well?
Scripture:
“In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” – Matthew 5:16
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Observation/Application:
Jesus goes on to talk about the light inside of us that results from the goodness of God our Father. When we are truly saved and following Jesus Christ, our insides are good, clean, pure. Our water is not muddy, but crystal clear. Our light is not dimmed, but unfiltered and shining bright. If we want our lights to be bright, we must have good hearts. How do we do this? Without over-complicating it, it starts with simply seeking the heart of God our Father. We can do this by spending time with God by reading God’s Word and by talking to him through prayer. Isn’t that how we get to know anyone, by spending time with them? That’s why we go out on dates when looking for a spouse, to get to know someone better. Who do we tend to know the best other than the people who we have spent the most time with. God loves us so much that He wants time with us. God wants time with You. He wants to wash away our pain, our hurts, our sickness, our struggles, our sin.
My prayer is that You invite our Lord Jesus Christ into your heart, and seek him with all your heart, and allow him to start working in your life!
#Looking-In-And-Looking-Up
Prayer:
Dear heavenly Father, thank you for this Word today. Thank you for another day to wake up and enjoy the time that we have on this great earth. For today is the day that You have made. Let us rejoice and be glad in it. We seek you first today. We seek your guidance. We seek your counsel. We seek your peace, comfort, wisdom, patience, love, and everything good that comes through You. Fill our hearts with your goodness. Help us to walk with you today Lord. Keep us close to You. Help us to see you and know that you are right there with us, all the day through. We love You Lord. Thank you for another day. Let our lights shine today, unfiltered, pure, and holy, for your glory, in Jesus mighty name. Amen.
Today’s full reading: 1 Samuel 20,21; 1 Psalm 34; Matthew 5
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