What Are You Looking At?

What’s the coolest thing you’ve ever seen? Was it a beautiful landscape? A sweet picture? An attractive person? A Chinese acrobatics show?

Our visual sensory system is keen....It can distinguish 500 shades of gray! As incredible as this physical feature is, though, it has much less power over us than the eyes of our minds. As you all know, it’s easy to close our eyes, but when it comes to closing our mind’s eye, that can be much more difficult.

I’m coming to realize the difference that is made when I fix my spiritual eyes on various things. In different seasons of life, we may feel more pressure, hardship, difficulties or challenges. It is in these moments that we have opportunity to determine where we’ll fix our gaze.

Recently, I was challenged by Hebrews 6:-- that talks about the example of others. It says, “we want you to imitate those who through faith and patience inherit what has been promised.” There are a lot of people that we can imitate. There are dozens of awesome characters in the Bible that are well-worth a second look. Not only that, but most of us are surrounded by people who exhibit an incredible amount of both faith and patience.

At times when I’m feeling particularly tired or worn out, I think of these people and the constant battles they’re facing. I think, “Wow, if they can do that… How am I tired?” Their faith and their patience inspire me greatly.

However, it seems like this is never enough to encourage me when I’m at a difficult point or season. Instead, I have to look in a different direction…

Hebrews 12:2-3

“Let us fix our eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy set before him endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. Consider Him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.”

When you’re feeling pressured, first look to the cross. After that, look to the cross. And when all else fails, look to the cross. It’s the only place you’re be able to fix your eyes on the one who endured far more opposition and pressure than you are experiencing. He’s the prime example of faith and patience.

P.S. If you can, please comment so I know you've read!