1 Samuel 16:7 Meaning: God’s Insight on Choosing David

But the Lord said to Samuel, “Do not look on his appearance or on the height of his stature, because I have rejected him. For the Lord sees not as man sees: man looks on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart.”

1 Samuel 16:7, ESV

1 Samuel 16:7 Meaning

1 Samuel 16:7 offers timeless insight into God’s discernment and priorities, taking place within the story of David’s anointing as king of Israel, a significant historical and cultural moment. Samuel, the prophet, is sent to Jesse’s house to anoint the next king. He looks at Eliab and thinks surely this is the Lord’s anointed, but God tells Samuel, “Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The Lord does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.”

This verse contextually occurs against a backdrop of divine dissatisfaction with King Saul as the nation transitions, and contrasts human judgment based on external appearances against God’s discernment of one’s heart (Jeremiah 17:10). It emphasizes that God’s choice and values often defy human expectations and standards.

While humans focus on the visible, God penetrates deeper, assessing the inner qualities and integrity of an individual. This insight carries a powerful ethical and moral implication: true worth and righteousness are not about external appearances or societal status but about one’s heart and character.

For the contemporary Christian, where image and material success often define a person’s worth, this verse remains incredibly relevant, challenging prevailing superficial values and invites a deeper introspection and realignment of personal priorities to align with those of God.

These lessons resonate throughout the Bible, including Jesus’ teachings on judging others and God’s kingdom values (Matthew 7:1-5; Luke 16:15), encouraging a reflective and humble approach to life and relationships, valuing what is genuinely important.

1 Samuel 16:7 is a reminder of God’s perspective, which often contrasts sharply with human judgment:

• It calls for a deeper understanding and appreciation of what truly matters to God – the heart and character of an individual.
• Invites ongoing reflection on personal values and the ethical implications of our judgments and actions, emphasizing the timeless truth that while humans look at the outward appearance, God looks at the heart.

Read 1 Samuel 16:7 in Additional Translations

But the Lord said to Samuel, “Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The Lord does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.”

1 Samuel 16:7, NIV

But the Lord said to Samuel, “Do not look at his appearance or at his physical stature, because I have refused him. For the Lord does not see as man sees; for man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.”

1 Samuel 16:7, NKJV