Devotional Thoughts: Eyes on Jesus

Jesus is seated at the right hand of God. Most passages say this except for Acts 7 that tells the story of the stoning of Stephen. Jesus being at the right hand of God indicates a place of honor and power. As Stephen was stoned to death and Saul watched the first martyr give up his life for the sake of the Gospel, Jesus stood. Stephen saw Jesus standing at the right hand of the Father. Saul’s name is changed to Paul later in Acts as he has a radical experience being blinded. He then believes and becomes one of the most valuable leaders that spreads the Gospel. Paul died a long time ago but his writings are still teaching us today. What a legacy!

This verse in Hebrews reminds us to keep our eyes on Jesus. Keeping our focus on anything else can lead us astray. What we feed our mind with really does affect us and can lead us astray. When I focus on Jesus not much else matters. If I’m sick, I carry on, if I’m afraid, I keep on going, if I I’m worried I’ve taken my eyes away from what really matters. Emergencies will come, no doubt. We can prepare for them, but nothing else prepares us like keeping our eyes on Jesus! If we focus on Jesus we are sustained deep in our soul and not just sustained but even given peace and guidance and direction. Do you know this song?

“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.”

Stephen and Paul not only withstood the great challenges and obstacles in this life, but they overcame. Their lives are still shining a great light, God’s light. We can do this too. Keep our eyes on Jesus. Follow Jesus in obedience no matter what. We’ll make it, we’ll shine when trials come. We’ve got this, but only if we keep our eyes on Jesus. Christians, run your race, look to Jesus, keep on going!