Numbers chapter 6 verses 1 – 5 (NIV)
The LORD said to Moses, “Speak to the Israelites and say to them: ‘If a man or woman wants to make a special vow , a vow of dedication to the Lord as a Nazirite, they must abstain from wine and other fermented drink and must not drink vinegar made from wine or other fermented drink. They must not drink grape juice or eat grapes or raisins. As long as they remain under their Nazirite vow, they must not eat anything that comes from the grapevine, not even the seeds or skins. “‘During the entire period of their Nazirite vow, no razor may be used on their head. They must be holy until the period of their dedication to the LORD is over; they must let their hair grow long.
1 Samuel chapter 16 verse 7 (NIV)
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.”
If someone was dedicated to the Lord as a Nazarite, or wanted to make a vow of dedication as a Nazarite, it was obvious at times because of their outward appearance since they would be following the law as we read of it here in the book of Numbers. Samson, Samuel and John the Baptist had been dedicated to God in this way. Whilst our outward appearance is noted by others, we know that God told Samuel that it was the attitude of our heart that is important. God isn’t interested either in the making of elaborate vows, but in pure hearts and total obedience.
Dear Lord,
I’m grateful that You don’t put importance on the things that we do, and although You know our hearts You still love us. Thank You. Amen.