Externals vs Internals
Do you care more about your inner or outer appearance?
We live in a world that applauds those in the spotlight. And the world’s spotlight shines brightest on “successful” people. Success is usually measured by:
- Appearance (how they look)
- Abilities (what they can do)
- Accomplishments (what they have done)
- Affluence or acquisitions (what they have)
- Associations (who they know).
Just have a look at the TV guide, check out the programs that are on during “prime time” viewing, and you will see it’s true.
It’s pretty easy to get sucked in to thinking that the externals (what everyone else can see) are more important than the internals (what’s going on inside, in your heart and soul). You can tell you have been sucked into this thinking when you spend more time and effort on the “externals”, than on the “internals”. And you can tell you have been sucked into this thinking when you value competency and accomplishments more than character and authenticity.
Check out the list below, and see which column you value the most, the external or internal.
| Externals | Internals |
|
Focuses on what others can see Values accomplishments Values performance results Competence first Doing good with the aim of looking good Display: outward show Esteems status and stature Competitive and boastful Craves attention/approval Insecure without limelight Stressed and flustered Reacts to criticism Cannot let go of control Restless in spirit Default way of the world |
Focuses on the inner-life Values authenticity Values growth and learning Character first Doing good flows out of being good Depth: inward security Esteems substance Genuinely celebrates others Secure and self-effacing Quiet confidence/security Steady and calm Responds to criticism Empowers others Restedness of spirit Discipleship way of God |
“The Lord does not look at the things man looks at. Man looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.” 1 Samuel 16:7b
Where have you been looking lately?
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