⁷ But the Lord said to Samuel, ^(A)“Do not look at his appearance or at his physical stature, because I have ^[a]refused him. ^(B)For^[b] the Lord does not see as man sees; for man ^(C)looks at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the ^(D)heart.”

⁹ “As for you, my son Solomon, ^(A)know the God of your father, and serve Him ^(B)with a loyal heart and with a willing mind; for ^(C)the Lord searches all hearts and understands all the intent of the thoughts. ^(D)If you seek Him, He will be found by you; but if you forsake Him, He will ^(E)cast you off forever.

²⁴ And they prayed and said, “You, O Lord, ^(A)who know the hearts of all, show which of these two You have chosen