Enlighten Our Hearts
For this reason, ever since I heard about your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all God’s people, I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers. I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the Spiritof wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better. I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you. Ephesians 1:15-18
Those of us who are strong and able in the faith need to step in and lend a hand to those who falter, and not just do what is most convenient for us. Strength is for service, not status. Each one of us needs to look after the good of the people around us, asking ourselves, “How can I help?” Romans 15:1-2 (The Message)
Insight
If we’re hoping to see good in the world, we’ll catch glimpses of joy, beauty, and forgiveness. But, on the flip side, if we view the world through a lens of cynicism and negativity, our eyes won’t be disappointed. We always find what we’re looking for.
What we focus on gets our attention, and what gets our attention impacts our heart, drives our actions and determines our words. The Apostle Paul opens up his letter to the believers in Ephesus with a prayer for their community. Of the endless things he could pray for, Paul brings up their perspective. He asks that God enlighten their hearts so they would know the message of hope they carry with them.
The condition of our heart doesn’t remain hidden; it will eventually get expressed. What is happening on the inside shows on the outside. Approaching our relationships with an agenda alters our perspective of the person on the other side. If we spend all our energy deciding what is best for our needs, our agenda, and our comfort, others lose out and get hurt.
Scripture speaks to how the body of Christ should build each other up, especially those within our reach. God will only transform us into Christ’s likeness by us praying for the eyes to see the hope we have in Him and change how we see others.
We ruin our relationships when our sole focus in life is ensuring our needs are met. Making much of ourselves is a selfish way to live. We make our days count when we empower others and point them towards freedom. God’s love should be the driving force in our lives because this is what God uses to bring His Kingdom to bear in this world.
Reflection
Where do the eyes of your heart need to be enlightened?
How is your current perspective influencing your response to the world around you?
Prayer
God, all too often, I make decisions based on my needs, desires, and what I feel is in my best interest. May I see my world through the lenses of humility, service, and compassion. By doing so, You will transform my heart so it reflects Your own. In Your name, Jesus. Amen.