(c) Amy S. Lewis, 2009
I wish I could see things through Ernie’s eyes sometimes. Then I might understand why giant rocks make him shudder or fallen logs or stumps seem so scary. What would it be like to see things in monocular vision? If I could see things through his eyes, I’d likely have a new understanding of my horse, be better able to communicate with him and be more patient with him.
I also wish I could see situations and people through God’s eyes, since I know that He sees them differently than I often do.
Isaiah 55:8-9 reads, “My thoughts are completely different from yours,” says the Lord. “And my ways are far beyond anything you could imagine. For just as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts higher than your thoughts.”
Perhaps if I could see circumstances and people through God’s eyes, I’d be less judgmental and critical. Situations wouldn’t seem daunting like boulders are to Ernie. Maybe I’d be more loving, understanding and gracious. I suspect I’d have a better sense of God’s love for me and others in this world.
In the Old Testament we see many examples of how God protects and blesses people, prophets and kings who pursue righteousness. He described David as a man after God’s own heart. (1 Samuel 13:14). In Genesis 6, Noah consistently followed God’s will and enjoyed a close relationship with him, which earned him the honor of building the ark and saving mankind.
Like these Biblical examples, the closer I am to God by studying scripture and committing myself to prayer, the better able I am to understand His will and His heart for people and for me. I will never fully comprehend all there is to know of God but I know that as I walk more closely with Him, I am more accepting of people. I am more patient. I trust God more and worry less. I have an eternal perspective on worldly matters. I become more focused on pursuing His will.
James 4:8, “Draw close to God, and God will draw close to you.”
1 Corinthians 2:10, “But we know these things because God has revealed them to us by His Spirit, and His Spirit searches out everything and show us even God’s deep secrets.“
Questions for reflection:
1. Who in our lives might look differently through the eyes of God? What difference could it make in our relationships if we saw people through God’s eyes?
2. What blessings might we be missing out on because we’ve strayed from seeking God’s will and knowing His heart?
3. What activity brings you closer to the heart of God? Will you practice it this week with the purpose of seeing life and people through His eyes?
