Joel Osteen (December-28-2023) Daily Devotional: Beneath the Surface.
Today's Scripture: Look beneath the surface so you can judge correctly. - John 7:24, NLT
Today's Word: you may have heard that it takes six seconds to make a first impression. Most people don’t realize how many times they look at someone and instantly decide if they’re going to like them or not. The Scripture says that man looks at the outward appearance of others while God looks at the heart. You can’t see a person’s heart as He can, but as Jesus said, you can look beneath the surface. You can take time to get to know someone who might look or act differently than you. Don’t just write someone off because they don’t measure up to your standards. You never know how God will use that relationship in your life.
Jesus said, “Whatever you’ve done to the least of these, you’ve done to Me.” In other words, when we make quick judgments about people, it’s as if we are making quick judgments about God. Don’t fall into that trap. Instead, look beneath the surface. Look for the good in others, find some common ground, and watch God bless you with new friends you never imagined.
Prayer for Today: “Father, thank You for seeing my heart, for seeing the best in me and overlooking my faults. Help me to look beneath the surface of other people and see what You see. I want to see others through Your eyes. Show me how to connect with others and be a blessing everywhere I go. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.”
