By nature, we are quick to judge based on what we see. We are quick to jump to conclusions based on our perceptions of others. We love to put people on a pedestal based on what we perceive. On the other hand, we love to evaluate someone with a critical heart based on what we perceive. When we behold ourselves rather than the Creator, we become critical and prideful rather than gracious and discerning. We can fall into the trap of asking ourselves, “Do I look the part? Am I playing the Christian part well enough?”
With Christ, we can drop the act. With Christ, we can drop the critical hearts. Jesus alone defines our identity and our purpose. During the context of these verses, Samuel does what we tend to do. Samuel sees David’s brothers and, based on appearance, judges which one he believes would be the best king. Samuel did not see what God saw; Samuel could not see the bigger picture of who God had chosen to be king of Israel. But notice something: Samuel’s perception of David’s brothers did not thwart God’s anointing of David. My friends, let us be encouraged; we can seek God with all our hearts without fearing man or playing God. I believe God wants to rescue us from hearts that hold any trace of criticalness or fear. Such a freedom exists, and it’s found in Christ alone. Today, may our fears and critical hearts bow down at the feet of Jesus.