1 Samuel 16:7 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.”
Before David was anointed to be king he was a simple shepherd boy. He was small in stature compared to his brothers and based on the oversight somewhat forgettable. He didn’t really stand out so it was easy to miss him.
I consider myself to be as David was in most settings. A person would have to be in my personal space to learn more about me. Being the quiet reserved person in these settings can work to my advantage or disadvantage. I’d like to think it was an oversight but something happened at work where an idea that I had was used but I was not given credit.
In the moment I felt indifferent about the oversight but when the person was given praise for it I felt betrayed. I tried to tell myself that I shouldn’t feel that way because “we’re a team” and “the clients’ response is what is most important.” Something was brewing in me that I didn’t like.
I shared with my husband the oversight and praise for the other person involved. I tried to play it down and say, “well it doesn’t matter.” It did matter. Fast forward to this morning – another supervisor acknowledged that they “saw me” and recognized my efforts as well. I tried to down play it again but something in me had to be honest. I simply said, “Thank you. I needed that.”
When you are hidden in the shadows like David was it’s easy to feel overlooked at times. I realized in this situation that everyone has a role to play. I also realized that God sees the full picture. I have to remember my own words of advice that I used to share with people who felt overlooked in a situation, “God knows all and God sees all.”
God sees your kind gesture and your giving. He sees how you sacrifice for others and rarely receive a thank you. He knows about the choices that you make to allow others to shine as you hold the spotlight for them. He sees you and at the right time, He will exalt you. Please don’t chase the light (blog for another day)
Galatians 6:9 tells us to not be weary in well doing for in due season you shall reap, if you faint not. Don’t faint during this season. God will send you a reminder of hope and appreciation that will outshine what you believe you deserve any day.
Be encouraged. Just another day’s journey of staying in the shadows. Peace.
Just Another Day's Journey 