“When people do not accept divine guidance, they run wild. But whoever obeys the law is joyful.” Proverbs 29:18 (NLT)
A few years ago, I noticed that my eyesight had taken a turn for the worse. The same eyes that could once read a novel for hours were now having trouble doing simple tasks like reading a cereal box and focusing on an article on my iPad. I didn’t know what was happening, and it honestly scared me. So, I made an appointment with an ophthalmologist. When I went to the doctor, he said I had Glaucoma and prescribed me a pair of bifocals.
To my surprise, the diagnosis actually rid me of my worry because it gave me answers I didn’t have before. The doctor also provided me with tools (the stronger lenses) to regain my sight. That’s when God brought to my mind today’s verse from Proverbs. It applies, in a similar way, to our journey with Christ.
In Proverbs 29:18, the words divine guidance are often translated as vision or revelation. When we do not embrace God’s vision or revelation for our lives, it’s our natural tendency to “run wild,” like a horse without restraint.
At times, we all experience a lack of vision, like when we allow life’s circumstances to drive our choices. In these instances, we may live re-actively instead of proactively. If you find yourself aimlessly wandering with no clear view in sight, there is good news! God, Himself has provided a solution for this problem. The answer is corrective bifocals; in this case, the Word of God.
The Bible acts as a corrective lens that restores our sight. God, however, is interested in more than merely our restored sight; He wants us to experience joy. When we pattern our lives after His instruction, He promises us a joy that is unchanged by life’s greatest storms.
The Word of God provides a way to clear vision, and clear vision produces real joy.
We will experience the depth of true joy only when we walk in obedience with the vision God has for us. Vision often requires risk, but God promises that every revelation brings reward. There’s more than a pot of gold to be found at the end of the rainbow; there’s God-breathed joy. Don’t become blind to the joy in front of you. Instead, put on the proper lenses and view life through God’s Word.
Dig Deeper
- 2 Corinthians 13:5 encourages us to test ourselves, “Examine yourselves to see if your faith is genuine. Test yourselves. Surely you know that Jesus Christ is among you; if not, you have failed the test of genuine faith.” Perhaps you need a vision test. How’s your vision? Non-existent? Blurry? Clear?
- How is God’s Word connected to our joy?
_______
If you need prayer or you would like to talk with a K-LOVE Pastor, we are here to serve you. Call us at 800-525-5683.
