The Father’s Heart

The Lord said to Samuel, “Do not look at his appearance or at the height of his stature, because I have rejected him; for God sees not as man sees, for man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.” 1 Samuel 16:7 (ESV)

The Lord looks at our hearts and what does He see? Are we abounding in love for our neighbors? Showing grace to others? Focused on the well-being of our family members? 

We all got to celebrate Father’s Day last Sunday. Whatever our personal history is with our fathers or ourselves as fathers, thanks to Jesus, we get to have a personal relationship with the Father of all fathers, who is with us always to the ends of the earth and will never let us down because His love for us is that great! 

He chases me down
Fights ‘til I’m found
Leaves the 99
          – “Reckless Love” by Caleb Culver, Cory Asbury and Ran Jackson

Some of us have to overcome a lot of emotion, bad memories, regret and unforgiveness in order to get past brokenness and into the Promised Land where Jesus reigns. It can feel like an insurmountable obstacle that stands in your way. But there is no greater advocate for you than the Lord.

Pastor Duran encouraged us last Sunday, Father’s Day, with a message about overcoming. He talked about the Jewish nation who wandered in the desert for 40 years and who then came face-to-face with the mighty Jordan River which God had commanded them to cross. Can you imagine what that was like? Ridiculous. Impossible. Supernatural. Yes! But the waters parted, and they were able to walk through the riverbed to their new home – the land flowing with milk and honey.

Life would bring more challenges to them, but their faith had been increased that day. They trusted God and He came through as He always does. Think about the last time you faced the impossible and God came through.

I’m an earthly father. With all of my strength and my love of Jesus I am going to fall short in my role as a dad. I have many times. “The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases; his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.” Lamentations 3:22-23 (ESV). 

We must call out for His mercy every day. The Lord wants to help us. His heart overflows with love for us. To know the Holy Spirit is always available gives us confidence going forward to make good decisions; provide wisdom to our children; and exercise healthy behavior.

Looking forward to seeing you next Sunday at Barranca Vista Park. Please keep praying for our church and our leaders. We know Jesus has a great future in store for us.