In the story of David’s selection to be the second king of Israel, we see an important distinction between the ways we look at ourselves and others, and the way that God sees us. The Lord said to Samuel, "The Lord sees not as man sees; man looks on the outward appearance, but God looks in the heart." That is an important distinction, and an encouraging word for us who are on the journey of faith.

Samuel had been called of God to anoint the first two kings of Israel. The first king was Saul, a man who had an inferiority complex, and frequently suffered from insecurity and depression. He was a man who, instead of seeking to do the will of God, seemed more intent on trying to please the people of Israel. He needed their affirmation to feel good about himself and their encouragement about bei…