Juxtapositions

I like Derek Thompson, he gathers in interesting information but often his perspective is cramped, his blinders solid and interpretations weak. Here is The Financial Benefits of Being Beautiful by Derek Thompson. Like many of his ilk he is desperate to believe that people's accomplishments are due to anything other than their own values, decisions and risks.

Within twenty minutes of reading that article, I came across another with the apposite biblical passage. From 1 Samuel, 16:7.

Do not look on his appearance or on the height of his stature, because I have rejected him; for the Lord does not see as mortals see; they look on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart.

Which brings to mind William Cowper's God Works in Mysterious Ways which includes

God moves in a mysterious way;
His wonders to perform;
He plans His footsteps in the sea,
and rides upon the storm.