Living in a world that displays the illusion of image it can be challenging to feel like you are loved, you are prosperous, you are enough. The illusion of image makes people look so pretty and you can feel so ugly. In the illusion of image others can look so prosperous as they drive their car that is not paid for, live in their house that is mortgaged to the max, or wear those clothes they bought on credit. The image of illusion can make us feel like we do not measure up which then triggers impulse buying, keeping up with the Jones’ attitude and I am less than because look what they have or do. It is all an illusion.

The Holy Spirit whispered to me the words, “I still look at the heart!” I immediately was taken out of the illusion of what everyone else has or gets to do into the reality that anyone can look good on the outside, but what is on the inside is what God is looking at. He is still the God who looks past the illusion to the see the reality of the heart. Many illusion images are covering up broken marriages, high piles of debt, insecurity, loneliness and so many other issues. The packaging looks great but the truth is there are so many broken people on the inside even though they look good on the outside.

The Lord still looks at the heart. 1 Samuel 16:6-7 says, “When they entered, he looked at Eliab and thought, “Surely the LORD’S anointed is before Him.” But 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.” My friends in this season of illusion of image remember God still looks at the heart and He is looking for hearts that are completely His. He does not care if you have a Christmas tree in your house or gifts under the tree, He is not concerned about the car you drive or the neighborhood you live in. He is looking at hearts right now. He is looking to see who has integrity, authenticity, authority, He is looking for faithful ones, devoted ones, loving ones. Anyone can buy on credit an illusion of image, but only those who love God and love people have hearts that seek Him. He is still looking at hearts my friends.