Introduction

Good morning, family! Isn't it a joy to gather together in God's house, where we can learn, grow, and encourage one another? Now, we've all heard the saying, "Perception is reality," right? But let me ask you, whose perception are we talking about? Our own or God's?

Today, we're going to dive deep into God's Word, looking specifically at 2 Corinthians 4:18 and Matthew 7:3-5. We're going to explore the importance of seeing what God sees, the significance of perspective and empathy, and what it really means to live out 2 Corinthians 4:18.

In 2 Corinthians 4:18, Paul tells us, "So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal." And in Matthew 7:3-5, Jesus warns, "Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother’s eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye? How can you say to your brother, ‘Let me take the speck out of your eye,’ when all the time there is a plank in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye."

These verses remind us to shift our focus from our human perception to God's divine perspective. It's about seeing beyond our narrow viewpoint and embracing a broader, more compassionate understanding of others.

Let's pray.

Father, open our hearts and minds today so we can truly grasp the richness of Your Word. Help us to see as You see, to love as You love, and to extend grace as You do. We ask for Your wisdom and guidance as we delve into these Scriptures. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

So, let's get to it, folks. Let's explore what God wants us to see and understand today. Let's open our hearts to His perspective, His empathy, and His eternal vision. Let's truly live out 2 Corinthians 4:18.

Seeing What God Sees

Seeing what God sees is not about physical sight, but spiritual insight. It's about understanding the world and the people in it from God's perspective. This concept is not just about changing our viewpoint, but about transforming our entire mindset. It's about shifting from a self-centered perspective to a God-centered one.

When we see as God sees, we begin to understand that every person we meet is a beloved child of God, made in His image. This understanding should shape how we interact with others. We should treat everyone with love, respect, and kindness, just as God does. This is not always easy, especially when we encounter people who are difficult or different from us. But when we see them as God sees them, we can find the compassion and patience to treat them with love.

Seeing what God sees also means recognizing the inherent value in every situation. Even in the darkest times, God is at work. He can bring good out of even the most difficult circumstances. When we see as God sees, we can find hope and purpose in every situation. We can trust that God is in control and that He has a plan for us.

Furthermore, seeing what God sees means focusing on the eternal rather than the temporary. Our human perspective often gets caught up in the here and now. We worry about our current problems and forget about the eternal perspective. But God's perspective is focused on the eternal. He sees beyond our current struggles to the eternal glory that awaits us. When we see as God sees, we can find peace and hope, even in the midst of trials.

Seeing what God sees also means recognizing our own shortcomings. In Matthew 7:3-5, Jesus warns us not to focus on the faults of others while ignoring our own. When we see as God sees, we recognize our own sinfulness and our need for His grace. This recognition leads to humility and repentance, which are essential for spiritual growth.

Finally, seeing what God sees means recognizing God's presence and activity in the world. God is not distant or detached. He is actively involved in the world and in our lives. When we see as God sees, we can recognize His hand at work, even in the smallest details of our lives.

Seeing what God sees is a lifelong journey. It requires constant prayer, study of God's Word, and openness to the Holy Spirit's guidance. It's not always easy, but it's worth it. When we see as God sees, we can live more fully, love more deeply, and serve more faithfully.

The Importance of Perspective and Empathy

The importance of perspective and empathy cannot be overstated, particularly in our Christian walk ... View this full PRO sermon free with PRO