Matters Of The Heart

Matters of the Heart

When I was with the Jews, I lived like a Jew to bring the Jews to Christ. When I was with those who follow the Jewish law, I too lived under that law. Even though I am not subject to the law, I did this so I could bring to Christ those who are under the law.

1 Corinthians 9:20

In the Amish community there are numerous groups, each with different rules of dress. Within these groups everyone knows “the type of suspenders males are required to wear, if any, or how many pleats there should be in a bonnet, or if one should wear a bonnet at all.”

Although getting caught up in such details may seem silly to those of us outside an Amish community, among Christians the same types of rules and arrangements have been going on for centuries. Paul preached to the Jews, and he preached to the Gentiles. Each culture had its own laws, customs, and traditions, but that’s not what Paul focused on. He overlooked the outward appearances and focused his attention on the hearts of his hearers. Paul knew he didn’t need to dress a certain way or follow various rules to get God’s approval, but he respected the practices of those whose customs were different in order to share the good news of Jesus with them.

Who in your life is different from you? Friendship is truest when we offer it to those who aren’t exactly the same as we are. Each of us can learn from another and discover something beautiful in that person’s heart. Focusing on who people are on the inside can be a challenge, but we honor God when we do: “People judge by outward appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart” (1 Samuel 16:7).

Dear heavenly Father, it’s easier to spend my time with those similar to me, but what rich friendships I miss out on when I do. Give me a heart to love others for who they are on the inside.