That We May See

I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened so that you may know what is the hope of his calling, what is the wealth of his glorious inheritance in the saints, (19) and what is the immeasurable greatness of his power toward us who believe, according to the might working of his strength. –Ephesians 1.18-19 (CSB)

Without wearing glasses, driving at night poses genuine challenges for me. My eyes hurt, my head begins to ache, my depth perception is off, and I simply cannot see well. However, with my glasses, my impediments are remedied, and driving is enjoyable.
 
I fear we often journey with Jesus like one who won’t wear his glasses when he ought. We struggle to follow faithfully, get frustrated when we fail, and then claim that our Christian experience is dry and unfruitful. Yet, if we were to take a moment and allow Holy God to do a spiritual “vision check-up” on us, we might discover the source of our vision issue. 
 
Paul prayed that his Ephesian friends would see God clearly. Specifically, he prayed that “they eyes of [their] heart may be enlightened” to know their hope in Christ, the promise of present and future blessings (cf. Rev. 21.5), and God’s “immeasurable greatness” and power. We considered the prayer of the Psalmist yesterday: “Make your ways known to me, LORD; teach me your paths” (Psalm 25.4). The Lord will teach us his paths, but we must also allow him to give us clarity of vision so that we may see him as he is.
 
What about your spiritual vision? Is it clear or blurry? How about this: When you think of God, what comes to mind? Now, are your thoughts about God accurate (So, are they Biblical?)? Are they complete (You may fixating on one characteristic to the neglect of the others.)? If your thoughts are not accurate or complete, you may have blurred vision.
 
As you pray and consider today’s passage, would you speak your thoughts about God to Him? Ask him to clarify your image of him; ask him to align your understanding of him with his Word. God desires that we have an accurate and Biblical view of him so that we me may live in bold obedience to him. 

For Reflection
When you think of God in this moment, what comes to mind?
 
Are your thoughts about God accurate? Are they complete? 
 
What is one aspect of God’s character that you struggle to understand or embrace more fully? What steps can you take this week to embrace all aspects of God’s character more fully?
 
Pray
Pray and ask God to give you greater clarity regarding who he is and what he desires.
 
Father, I thank you that you have not hidden yourself from people, but rather have made yourself known through creation and through your Word. Please open the eyes of my heart and help me see you more clearly. In Jesus’ name, Amen.