Be careful what you assume

In a world driven by first impressions, assumptions have become easy to make. We hear someone speak, see how they present themselves, or read something they have written, and within moments we often decide who they are and what they have to offer.

The Bible warns against this kind of thinking.

When the prophet Samuel was sent to anoint the next king of Israel, he assumed God's choice would be based on appearance. Instead, God reminded him, "Man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart" (1 Samuel 16:7).

Scripture repeatedly shows God using people who did not fit human expectations.

Moses told God he was "slow of speech and slow of tongue" when called to lead Israel. Yet God chose him anyway. The Apostle Paul faced criticism from those who said his letters were powerful, but his personal presence and speech were unimpressive (2 Corinthians 10:10). Despite those criticisms, God used Paul to shape much of the New Testament.

The lesson is clear: God's work is not limited by outward appearances.

Jesus Himself warned, "Do not judge according to appearance, but judge with righteous judgment" (John 7:24). Righteous judgment requires looking beyond surface impressions and seeking truth.

This principle is especially important in today's world. People communicate in different ways. Some are gifted speakers. Others express themselves more clearly through writing. Some face physical challenges, learning differences, or limitations that are not immediately visible. None of these determine a person's value or whether God can work through them.

Too often, we focus on delivery instead of substance. We become distracted by style rather than listening for wisdom, truth, and the leading of the Holy Spirit.

The Church should be a place where people are encouraged to hear what is being said rather than dismissing someone because of how it is said.

Before making assumptions about another person, it is worth remembering that God has a long history of choosing unexpected vessels to accomplish extraordinary things.

Outward appearance may capture our attention, but it is the heart that captures God's.

Pastor Scott Acklin ministers at New Fire Ministries.