In a world permeated by social media and advertising, we are constantly pressured to fit into certain images or boxes. We are often made to feel less than if we don’t fit a certain standard of beauty or accomplishment. We also become so ingrained in this culture that we in turn push others down if they don’t fit our own standards as well.

All of it beckons the question, what really counts in life? Is it our appearance? Is it our level of education? Is it our income? Is it what type of car we drive? Is it the type of clothing we wear?

This week we turn to the story found in 1 Samuel 16:1-13 when David is chosen to be the next king of Israel. As Samuel is vetting the sons of Jesse, he ends up choosing the least expected one. He is the youngest and the shortest. In that time, height was a sign of strength and might. According to the standards of that time, he wasn’t fit to be a leader, and yet he is the one who is chosen to lead God’s people.

This story causes us to pause and think about what really matters. Here, God makes it clear that it is the heart that matters. No matter how the world tries to measure us according to various standards, know that your heart is really what counts. Your heart and life is what God treasures most, and all that God asks from us is to love God in return.

Through whatever you are going through right now, I pray that you will know the value of your heart. You may not be exactly where you want to be, or you may be content in a place that the world doesn’t quite value. The truth is, your heart is as precious as gold and God sees that. Know that your heart is what really counts and is the very thing that God can use to change this world.

I hope you’ll consider joining us for worship this Sunday at 11am in person or online. Hope you have a great weekend!

Peace and blessings, 

Pastor Kipp