THE GOD THAT SEES THE HEART
By Rev. Samuel Arimoro
Main Text: 1 Samuel 16:7
Supporting Texts: Jeremiah 17:10, Proverbs 21:2, Psalm 139:1-4, Hebrews 4:13, Acts 1:24
INTRODUCTION:
God does not see as man sees. Man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart. In a world where people are judged by looks, achievements, and positions, God is still focused on what lies within—the thoughts, intentions, and motives of the heart. When your heart is right, your life aligns with His favour and purpose. This message is a call to inward purity, sincerity, and alignment with God's desires.
1. GOD SEES BEYOND OUTWARD APPEARANCE
a) Physical beauty does not impress God
God is not moved by external qualities (1 Samuel 16:7).
b) Titles and positions do not move God
Man may be deceived by status, but God weighs the heart (Proverbs 21:2).
c) God searches motives, not performances
The reason behind your action matters more than the action itself (Matthew 6:1-4).
d) The heart determines acceptance with God
Clean hands with a pure heart are needed to ascend (Psalm 24:3-4).
e) Biblical Example: Eliab was rejected despite his appearance, but David was chosen because of his heart (1 Samuel 16:6-13).
2. GOD TESTS AND REWARDS THE HEART
a) God examines the heart in trials
Trials expose true intentions (Deuteronomy 8:2).
b) He rewards based on the heart’s posture
Blessings follow those who serve from the heart (Jeremiah 17:10).
c) The heart determines the outcome of destiny
A proud heart leads to downfall; a humble heart is lifted (James 4:6).
d) A sincere heart brings open reward
What is done in secret with the right heart is rewarded openly (Matthew 6:6).
e) Biblical Example: Hezekiah reminded God of his loyal heart, and God extended his life (Isaiah 38:1-5).
3. GOD DESIRES A PURE AND CONTRITE HEART
a) A broken and contrite heart is acceptable to God
God will not despise a repentant heart (Psalm 51:17).
b) The pure in heart shall see God
Heart purity grants divine encounter (Matthew 5:8).
c) Heart repentance attracts mercy
When the heart turns, mercy flows (Joel 2:12-13).
d) God transforms lives through changed hearts
He gives a new heart to those who surrender (Ezekiel 36:26).
e) Biblical Example: The tax collector in Luke 18:13-14 was justified because of a sincere, humble heart.
4. A RIGHT HEART ATTRACTS DIVINE FAVOUR
a) God promotes based on the heart
David was promoted because of his heart after God (Acts 13:22).
b) A right heart invites angelic attention
Cornelius’ prayers and alms came up as a memorial (Acts 10:1-4).
c) God uses those whose hearts are loyal to Him
His eyes search for such people (2 Chronicles 16:9).
d) The blessings of God locate a sincere heart
The blessings of the righteous are many (Psalm 5:12).
e) Biblical Example: Mary found favour with God because of her humble and submissive heart (Luke 1:28-30).
5. GOD WANTS TOTAL HEART COMMITMENT
a) God demands all, not part of your heart
Love the Lord with all your heart (Deuteronomy 6:5).
b) Divided hearts grieve God
You cannot serve two masters (Matthew 6:24).
c) God wants you to guard your heart
From it flow the issues of life (Proverbs 4:23).
d) Heart connection must precede service
Worship in spirit and truth starts from the heart (John 4:24).
e) Biblical Example: King Josiah served the Lord with all his heart, and revival broke out (2 Kings 23:25).
CONCLUSION:
The state of your heart matters more to God than your deeds. Outward actions may deceive men, but God sees, tests, and rewards the heart. As you walk with God, let your heart be pure, sincere, and totally committed. That is where divine favour and lifting come from.
PRAYER POINTS:
1. Father, thank You for seeing and knowing my heart.
2. Lord, purify my heart from every hidden sin and wickedness.
3. Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me.
4. Let my heart be pleasing and acceptable in Your sight, Lord.
5. Expose every wrong motive and attitude in me.
6. Father, search me and lead me in the way everlasting.
7. Lord, give me the heart that obeys and trusts You fully.
8. Let my heart attract Your divine favour and visitation.
9. Empower me to love You with all my heart, soul, and strength.
10. Lord, align my heart with Your purpose and plan for my life.
