“I pray also that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened” (Ephesians 1:18).
Walking along a country dirt road one spring day, I was intrigued by the beautiful fields and woods stretching around me. My winter-dormant senses were coming alive to enjoy the wonders of God’s creation. The scent of wild cherry blossoms hung in the air, as trees rustled slightly, like someone quietly breathing. Everything somehow looked so alive, so vibrant. I picked a tender maple leaf, twirling it in the sunlight. A nearby pine held out branches tipped with new shoots. I loved feeling the rubbery texture of the bright green needles, and the softness of moss beneath the tree (God’s carpeting).
Physical senses are our gateway to learning. Further, God wants to use our spiritual senses to awaken us to His work around us. Jesus said, “Consider carefully what you hear” (Mark 4:24). If we listen with spiritual ears, we can hear Him speak in our thoughts. Sometimes He uses Scripture verses or song lyrics to communicate.
Observing people and circumstances around us with spiritual eyes leads us to God-given deeper insights. A weary smile, for example, may reveal a hidden hurting heart. We become attuned to a different dimension beneath the surface of everyday life, a different set of values.
By opening our spiritual eyes and ears, we can become more aware of God’s encouraging presence as He begins to involve us in His kingdom work.
What is God teaching me through observing happenings around me?