Beyond the Outer Appearance: What Does God See?

It was bright—very bright and bold. The pink shirt could have been seen from miles away. It clearly made a statement: I am here.

My friend walked into church that Sunday morning glowing in pink. This strong, tough, big man was wearing a bold, vibrant shirt. Honestly, it looked sharp. But it also made me reflect on how easy it is to make a statement through the clothes we choose to wear—or not wear.

Today, fashion is often used to grab attention. Women, and men too, may wear very little or very bold attire to stand out. Clothing has the power to send a message, to shape perception, and to influence how others see us. In fact, the fashion industry thrives on this concept. Yet, there's a staggering truth that lies beneath the surface: according to a report I found on Google, 92 million tonnes of clothing are discarded every year. That’s a massive environmental impact driven largely by fast fashion and consumerism.

We often associate clothing with identity. It can make a person look thinner, more educated, stylish, or even more distinguished. But as Christians, we are called to think beyond the fabric and patterns—to focus not on the outward appearance, but on the heart.

The Bible reminds us of this truth in 1 Samuel 16:7:

“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.’”

In a world that often judges based on looks—be it selecting leaders, pastors, or CEOs—we must remember that God values what’s on the inside. A person may appear polished on the outside, yet still carry a deceptive or impure heart. That is why discernment, sincere prayer, and patience are essential when evaluating character.

So, enjoy the bright pinks, yellows, and vibrant colors of the season! Express yourself with confidence. But as you look at others, take a moment to look deeper. Seek to know their heart.