The Lord Looks at the Heart

Before you start

The prophet Samuel is sent to Jesse's house to anoint Israel's next king. He expects the tall, impressive eldest son. God chooses David, the youngest, who wasn't even invited in from the fields.

Read 1 Samuel 16:1–13 aloud from any translation. Invite volunteers to read; never put anyone on the spot.

Icebreaker · 5 minutes

What's one thing about you that people usually don't notice at first?

Observe · what does it say?

1. Who does Samuel assume God has chosen, and why?
2. Where is David when Samuel arrives?
3. What happens when David is anointed (verse 13)?

Interpret · what did it mean?

1. What does God look at that people miss?
2. Why might God choose the one no one thought to invite?

Apply · what does it ask of us?

1. Where do you compare yourself to others, online or in class?
2. Who on campus might be overlooked, and how could you see them?

On your campus

Do a "Scroll Less, See More" night: a short social-media fast challenge with this study.

Closing prayer

God, You see our hearts. Free us from comparison, and teach us to see each other the way You do. Amen.

Take home

Take one day this week off the app that makes you compare yourself most.