A Devotion May Be Someone's Only Bible

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20/20 Vision

"[Hagar] gave this name to the LORD who spoke to her: 'You are the God who sees me.'"  Genesis 16:13 NIV

Photo courtesy of pixabay.One day without warning, my vision was normal and the next, something was wrong . . . very wrong.

At first, I thought the flashes of light came from a passing school bus in the early dawn, but before long I realized the flashes originated from within my right eye, along with a few floaters. Before I could find my way into the ophthalmologist's chair, my vision diminished.

Apprehension darkened my outlook. I had to see well . . . to write, to drive, to work, to help my daughters, to maintain my independence. Fear gnawed at the edges of my trust in the faithful God whom I love.

For the first time, I could empathize with my late husband's concerns about failing vision after a TBI left him with serious eye issues. Not that I didn't sympathize, but now I understood. I wished I could tell him so.

Hagar was a servant girl lost in the wilderness centuries ago. Yet she drew confidence from the God who saw her.   

Despite my jumbled thoughts and emotions, I thanked God I could see today . . . the brightening brilliance of a sunrise and the soft glow of sunset, crimson and golden leaves against a sapphire sky, sparkly snow gracing every branch and bush, greedy sparrows at my feeders, and photos of my daughters and grandsons. The ordinary became extra-ordinary!

I also became acutely aware of the "sight" words we use every day. Words like look, see, view, watch, and focus. Tears slipped down my cheeks at church when we sang "Be Thou My Vision.” Passages of Scripture leaped off the page. Stories of Jesus healing the blind, verses urging us to look to Jesus as our example, and promises that we will someday see Him face to face.   

After five weeks, my eye became stable. Using a protocol to strengthen my vision and support eye health, I'm guardedly optimistic . . . and still more grateful than ever.

What we have trouble seeing in our present circumstances may have little to do with our physical vision. Our way often seems cloudy and uncertain, but God’s vision is always 20/20. He sees with clarity and understanding, both near and far.

Trust God’s vision even when yours is blurry. 

(Photo courtesy of pixabay.)

(For more devotions, visit Christian Devotions.)


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Sarah Phillips

Sarah Lynn Phillips and her husband, Barry, live in Northeastern Pennsylvania and have three daughters. Their family has expanded to eight, including a three-year-old grandson named Ty. Sarah is a freelance writer and editor of The Women’s LINK, a seasonal church and community newsletter. Her blog, PENNED WITHOUT INK (www.sarahlynnphillips.com) reflects how God’s ultimate story touches our stories.


Comments

  1. Thanks for your devotion. I've been legally blind all my life and I'm planning on getting into this field of devotional freelance writing. Please pray for me about that. Thanks and God bless you richly.