Re: Verse reading–Isaiah 52:13-15, Isaiah 53 (day four)
Appearances are not always as they seem. The Messiah appeared despised and forsaken. He looked to be stricken and smitten of God. But He was high and lifted up. He was greatly exalted. Jesus was the only substitute for us…the only one acceptable to God to take on the sins of the world and atone for them.
“God sees not as man sees, for man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.” (1 Samuel 16:7) God sees beyond the circumstances and sees His perfect will. Often we get bogged down in the circumstances of life. Jesus was able to remain faithful and obedient to God through all of the persecution, torture and death, because He did not lose sight of His call. Don’t allow the circumstances of your life to distract you from the work that God has called you to do. Isaiah identified the Messiah as a suffering servant. To be a servant, keep your eyes and heart on your call.
Great reminder, “God sees not as man sees, for man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.” (1 Samuel 16:7). Thank you for the verse. As I gained more experience in life and have accumulated wisdom through work and personal life, I don’t look at the appearances but try to understand people through their heart and actions. Heart and actions go hand-in-hand. Appearances can be deceiving. The heart and actions count. Heart leads to actions. Thanks for this thoughtful and educational post.
Phuong Le Callaway, PHD, CA