Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus
Tuesday, August 18
Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus
We do this by keeping our eyes on Jesus, the champion who initiates and perfects our faith. Because of the joy awaiting him, he endured the cross, disregarding its shame. Now he is seated in the place of honor beside God’s throne. Hebrews 12:2
There are times when life can feel overwhelming. We look at our problems, our disappointments, our fears, and the things we cannot control. The more we focus on those things, the heavier our hearts can become. That is why the message of “Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus” is so powerful. It reminds us that we don’t have to keep our eyes fixed on everything that is going wrong. We can turn our attention back to Jesus. Written by Helen Howarth Lemmel, it encourages us to look to Jesus for comfort and guidance: “Turn your eyes upon Jesus, look full in His wonderful face; and the things of earth will grow strangely dim, in the light of His glory and grace.”
Hebrews tells us to “keep our eyes on Jesus.” Notice that it doesn’t say we will never face difficulties. Instead, it tells us where to look when difficulties come.
When Peter walked on the water, he was able to walk toward Jesus as long as his attention remained on Him. But when he began looking at the wind and the waves, fear took over. Sometimes we do the same thing. We focus so much on the storm that we forget who is standing with us in the middle of it. Singing this hymn helps us to shift our focus from our worries and distractions to the loving presence of Jesus. It reminds us that when we fix our eyes on Him, everything else fades in comparison to His glory and grace.
Whenever you feel overwhelmed today, take a moment to turn your eyes upon Jesus and pray for His peace and guidance.
Prayer for today: Lord Jesus, help us to turn our eyes upon You and to find peace and comfort in Your presence. As we sing this hymn, may our hearts be drawn closer to You and may we trust in Your guidance and love. Let Your glory and grace fill our lives. In Your name, Amen.