How do you feel about the reality that God has his eye on you?
By Dean Collins
God sees all, but the eye of the Lord is on those who fear him, hope in him, and choose his steadfast love.
The difference between seeing someone and keeping an eye on them could simply be nuance. However, reading Psalm 33 with 2 Chronicles 16:9 suggests this is more than a subtle difference. It might be the difference between going it on your own or having the full support of the Divine. You might seem to succeed in something by flying solo, but the lifespan of your plan, maybe even your impact, is limited. On the other hand, with the full support and watchful eye of the Lord, your life’s purpose just might last for generations.
While some of us like the idea of someone keeping an eye on us, others prefer to go it alone. If no one is watching, they may feel free to do whatever they want. There is some truth to that. But doing whatever we want doesn’t always lead to good outcomes. And sometimes it leads to very serious problems.
All generations
Psalm 31 tells us that God’s plans are for all generations. The stuff you and I plan can fall apart in a second. So if we want to do something that has staying power, following the counsel of God and his plans is far better than anything we might determine to do on our own. It’s not that God doesn’t want us to make plans. We possess the very image of God, and that means he has given us creative ability. And we have also been given responsibility when it comes to stewardship and dominion over God’s creation.
I think David indicates that God’s purposes are good and will be accomplished. God looks down and sees everything and is paying special attention to those who place their hope and trust in his hands. If we fear God, if we have awe and respect for him and place our trust in his steadfast love, his favor is with us. Whatever we do will have not just the possibility but the assurance of enduring past the date on our death certificate.
If we fear God, if we have awe and respect for him and place our trust in his steadfast love, his favor is with us.
Very little survives past a generation. Businesses, organizations, even governments have a shelf life. But the things of God span the generations. It was someone who God had his eye on in the past who not only created us but also influenced us to know God. We can note some of the people and events that influenced our lives, but only God knows what act of trust and faithfulness of another brought you and me into this moment of faith and action.
All trust
The writer of Chronicles continues this line of thinking, reminding us that God is always looking for those who place their trust in him. When he sees them, God places his whole weight behind them. Knowing that God has our back should give us full confidence to pursue the plans he has for us.
Hebrews 12 rounds out our understanding of the role of vision and trust. Hebrews 12:2 instructs us to keep our eyes fixed on Jesus. He is the founder and perfecter of our faith, so it makes perfect sense to keep our eyes locked on Jesus just as our Father in Heaven has his eyes on us. When we do, we remain in the center of God’s will. We experience much less fatigue. We have real staying power.
I am thrilled God has his eyes on you and me today. It just makes sense to return the favor and keep our focus on him all day, every day.
Your time with God’s Word
Psalm 33:11, 13-22; Proverbs 19:21; 2 Chronicles 16:9; Hebrews 12:2-3 ESV
Photo by Priscilla Du Preez on Unsplash
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