You’ve probably heard the saying that “hindsight is 20/20”, but what about your current vision? How about your vision for the future? Are they also 20/20?
The prophet Haggai asked this question, “Who is left among you who saw this temple in its former glory? And how do you see it now? In comparison with it, is this not in your eyes as nothing?”
The previous temple was absolutely stunning. Gold, silver, carved wood, flowing tapestries-it was eye candy! But now, to the untrained eye, it appeared as nothing special. Therefore, Haggai was exhorting the people not to get stuck in the moment. They were to keep on with the vision of rebuilding. Although, in that moment, it may not have looked as glorious or as beautiful as it had in years past, the promise was that if they kept working together with God they would build something that was superiorly majestic!
Vision is imperative. Moses gave up a life of riches, pleasure and privileges because of vision. Why was he able to do this? He was able to see the reward. Hebrews 11:26 says, “He valued suffering in the Messiah’s camp far greater than Egyptian wealth because he was looking ahead, anticipating the payoff.” And verse 27 goes on to say that, “He endured by seeing the One who is invisible.” He kept his vision on God!
We are no different and need to see our circumstances and relationships the way God does. Because we don’t see as God sees (2 Samuel 16:7), we need consistent input from the Holy Spirit. He is the one who makes known the thoughts & desires of God (1 Corinthians 2:10).
Take a moment to consider these examples on how we can mistake people and circumstances without seeing the way God does:
We could see Hannah as a drunk mumbler. God sees a faith filled mother.
We could see Joseph as a rejected, abused boy. God sees a world leader.
We could see Moses as a traitor, living a life of luxury off the backs of slaves, who ends up a failure. God sees a deliverer and carrier of His glory.
We could see Rahab, a prostitute. God sees a believer that will mother kings.
We could see Jacob, a deceiver. God sees an overcomer.
We could see Saul, a hater. God sees a lover.
We could see Jairus’ daughter as dead. God sees a sleeping girl that just needs to be woken up.
We could see Jesus as a defeated miracle worker, killed by his own people. God sees His victorious Son, dying on our behalf, so we would never have to be separated from Him or His love.
What do you see? What is your vision? How do you see it? Take a moment to ask the Holy Spirit to give you His insights, thoughts and desires for your life and others around you.