And it came to pass, when they were come, that he looked on Eliab, and said, Surely the LORD’S anointed is before him. But the LORD said unto Samuel, Look not on his countenance, or on the height of his stature; because I have refused him: for the LORD seeth not as man seeth; for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the LORD looketh on the heart. — 1 Samuel 16:6-7
As Samuel searched for the king, he found Eliab and thought that it was surely him. He was apparently impressive to look at. What more could you ask for in a king, right? But we see that God cautioned Samuel about being distracted by the outward appearance.
While Samuel may have chosen Eliab to be king, that was not God’s plan. I often wonder what Eliab thought as Samuel passed by and said that he wasn’t the one. If you are like me, you have probably had moments in your life that you thought surely this was the one God was going to act in, but He didn’t.
In those moments, it can be difficult to trust God’s plan. While we may have a great plan in our mind, God’s plan is always better. His plan may not align perfect with our thoughts and ideas, but it always aligns perfectly with His will.
Maybe you find yourself at one of those moments in life today. Perhaps you are in the situation of Eliab. You thought surely this was your moment, but it turns out it wasn’t. Or maybe you find yourself in the situation of Samuel where you thought you had it all figured out, only to find out God’s plan was different.
It isn’t always easy to trust in God’s plan, but it is the best way through life. Whenever you feel passed over, trust His plan. Whenever He chooses a different way, trust His plan. God’s plan, while it may differ from our plan, will keep you aligned with His purpose and His will for your life.
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