Our Vigilant God
Oh, be careful, little eyes, what you see.
Oh, be careful, little eyes, what you see.
There’s a Father up above who is looking down in love.
Oh, be careful, little eyes, what you see.
Do you remember singing this song as a child? It has several verses and motions to accompany the words (tongue – what you say / hands – what you do / feet – where you go). This is a simple reminder that the Lord sees and knows everything you do.
In his letter to believers, Peter instructs us to “have unity, brotherly love, a tender heart, and a humble mind” (1 Peter 3:8). But this pattern of life doesn’t just happen or magically appear. Peter emphasizes his teaching with the words of King David found in Psalm 34.
Whoever desires to love life and see good days, let him keep his tongue from evil and his lips from speaking deceit; let him turn away from evil and do good; let him seek peace and pursue it.
- 1 Peter 3:10-11
We walk along this path called life. Some days are carefree and filled with sunshine. Then, we turn a sharp corner and meet storm clouds and troubled days. The Lord commands us to avoid evil and actively choose to do good. He emphasizes that we should diligently pursue peace. When hard days, trials, and struggles come, we must devote ourselves to unity, brotherly love, a tender heart, and a humble mind.
For the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous,
and his ears are open to their prayer.
But the face of the Lord is against those who do evil.- 1 Peter 3:12
In this verse, the author attaches human characteristics to God. The LORD does not have actual eyes or ears. Yet, these anthropomorphic terms give greater understanding and provide comfort to the reader. The eyes of our vigilant God are watchful, aware, and attentive. The LORD opens His ears to each prayer we utter.
Friends, the path of life is not a straight highway. The Lord sees us, and He demonstrates care and compassion as we walk, stumble, and sometimes fall along the way. When we falter or stagger, the Lord hears our prayers and is attentive to the cries of His people. This is a comfort because our Good Shepherd wants us to walk with Him.
Do not believe that people who are living carefree, sinful lifestyles are getting away with it. The wicked are not winning. The Lord’s face is against them. This image refers to the holy, righteous Judge. God is ultimately in control, and He will set all things right in His time.
Our vigilant God is watchful, observant, aware, alert, and attentive. He cares for His people, and He hears each prayer we bring to Him. The LORD knows. The LORD sees. The LORD hears.
Head to Heart
The eyes of the LORD are watching me. He wants to guide and direct my steps. Am I walking in a way that brings glory to Him and honors His name? His ears are open to my prayers. Do I take time to sit before the LORD in silence, offer my prayers, and listen for His voice? Heavenly Father, open my heart and mind to acknowledge that You see and hear me.
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