Things Not Seen
1. “Things Which Are Not Seen”
2. The Joy Of Jesus That The World Can’t See
3. The Dangers Of Things Not Seen
4. The Wonder Of Things Not Seen
5. The Fear Of Things Not Seen
6. The Pain Of Things Not Seen
7. Victory Over Things Not Seen
8. We Worry About Things Not Seen
9. The Glory Of Things Not Seen
10. The Time Of Death Is Not Seen
11. The Unseen Hand
12. We Can’t See Another Person’s Burden
13. Now We See Through A Glass, Darkly
14. We Can’t See The Future
15. We Can’t See Another Person’s Salvation
16. The Beauty Of Things Not Seen
17. The Evidence Of Things Not Seen
18. Asking Why, When We Can’t See The Answer
19. We Can’t See The Ways Of The Lord
20. We Can’t See What’s In A Wrapped Gift
21. “Blessed Are They That Have Not Seen, And Yet Have Believed”
22. We Can’t See Time Passing
1. “Things Which Are Not Seen”
I was reading through I Corinthians and I came to a verse that I have read many times, but I had not thought of it as a topic for our devotions. “While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal.” (II Corinthians 4:18) The things which we see all around us will one day go away, but the things of the Lord which we don’t see will last forever. The Lord used this little phrase, “things which are not seen” to give me our next devotionals. You are welcome to join us daily as we think about “Things Not Seen”.
2. The Joy Of Jesus That The World Can’t See
Have you ever known someone that was going through the storms of life, and he or she still had joy? It is amazing to me that even in hard times; God gives us joy, deep down in our hearts. Peter tells us that Jesus is the source of our “joy unspeakable and full of glory”. The world doesn’t have this joy. They can’t see Jesus in our heart. But, even though we have not seen Jesus as those who walked with Him on earth, we can still feel His presence, and trust in His promises, and that gives us joy!
“6 Wherein ye greatly rejoice, though now for a season, if need be, ye are in heaviness through manifold temptations:
7 That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ:
8 Whom having not seen, ye love; in whom, though now ye see him not, yet believing, ye rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory:
9 Receiving the end of your faith, even the salvation of your souls.” (I Peter 1:6-9)
3. The Dangers Of Things Not Seen
We had planned a little trip to the beach last Monday, but the forecast was calling for rain most of the day. We did not want to make a three and a half hour drive in the rain and decided to go down the next day. Tuesday morning we loaded my Mom’s stuff into the car and were on our way to pick up my Mother-In-Law when the realtor called and told us to wait until they could get a report from the county sheriff’s office. So, we waited, and waited. The storm that brought the rain was not considered bad enough to be given a name, but it brought unforeseen devastation. When we talked to the realtor again we found out that most of the roads were flooded and many even washed out. We were told that we could not get to the realtor’s office and it was doubtful that we could get to the place where we planned to stay. We looked online and saw the damage that had canceled our trip. We saw a photo of a car that had fallen in a huge hole where the road had once been. There was a scary picture of a road that looked fine from above, but you could see in the photo that the ground under the road had washed away. There were cones set up to warn travelers not to go across the road. Some bridges and main roads were under so much water that they were not passable. One video showed a car being washed away moments after the driver was rescued from the vehicle. This storm, which was not even considered a threat, brought 21 inches of rain, and along with the full moon and king tide, many dangers, not seen. People probably die every day from dangers not seen. How many have died in accidents, because the driver didn’t see the danger in driving after drinking? How many have been harmed after doing foolish stunts, because they didn’t see the danger? I have read that some people with peanut allergies, or other food allergies, died because they didn’t know the allergen was in something they ate. Balaam did not see the danger ahead, but God let his donkey speak to him and warn him, and the Lord opened Balaam’s eyes to see the danger. “Then the LORD opened the eyes of Balaam, and he saw the angel of the LORD standing in the way, and his sword drawn in his hand: and he bowed down his head, and fell flat on his face.” (Numbers 22:31) I doubt that Abel saw the danger from his brother who rose up and killed him. The greatest danger is the danger of rejecting Christ. Jesus said, “He that rejecteth me, and receiveth not my words, hath one that judgeth him: the word that I have spoken, the same shall judge him in the last day.” (John 12:48) God’s Word is our warning. I am writing this message to you today so you can see the danger of rejecting Jesus. “And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment:” (Hebrews 9:27) Every person will bow to Jesus and be judged. It is better to bow and accept His gift of salvation, than to face Him in eternity and hear Him say, “I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.” (Matthew 7:23)
“9 Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name:
10 That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth;
11 And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.” (Philippians 2:9-11)
4. The Wonder Of Things Not Seen
When I think of the word “Wonder” my mind always goes to the Christmas story. I am still filled with wonder when I think of Christmas. Just to think that Jesus came to die for me. In Luke 2 we find the wonder of the shepherds as they heard the angels proclaim that Christ the Lord was born and lying in a manger. “And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them into heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Bethlehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us.” (Luke 2:15) They wanted to go “see this thing” that was told them by the angels. “And when they had seen it, they made known abroad the saying which was told them concerning this child. And all they that heard it wondered at those things which were told them by the shepherds.” (Luke 2:17-18) Things of God that are not seen cause us to wonder. The Bible Study Tools Dictionary online, states this definition for “Wonder”. “The Hebrew word for "wonders" is pala` (pah-lah), meaning miracle, marvel, supernatural deed. It is something beyond the human ability to achieve.” Luke describes many times in the life of Christ that made people wonder:
-When Jesus read from the book of Isaiah in the synagogue.
“18 The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised,
19 To preach the acceptable year of the Lord.
20 And he closed the book, and he gave it again to the minister, and sat down. And the eyes of all them that were in the synagogue were fastened on him.
21 And he began to say unto them, This day is this scripture fulfilled in your ears.
22 And all bare him witness, and wondered at the gracious words which proceeded out of his mouth. And they said, Is not this Joseph's son?” (Luke 4:18-22)
-When Jesus calmed the storm. “And they came to him, and awoke him, saying, Master, master, we perish. Then he arose, and rebuked the wind and the raging of the water: and they ceased, and there was a calm. And he said unto them, Where is your faith? And they being afraid wondered, saying one to another, What manner of man is this! for he commandeth even the winds and water, and they obey him.” (Luke 8:24-25)
-On two occasions when Jesus cast out demons. “And they were all amazed at the mighty power of God. But while they wondered every one at all things which Jesus did, he said unto his disciples,” (Luke 9:43)
“And he was casting out a devil, and it was dumb. And it came to pass, when the devil was gone out, the dumb spake; and the people wondered.” (Luke 11:14)
-And after His resurrection when Jesus appeared to the disciples.
“36 And as they thus spake, Jesus himself stood in the midst of them, and saith unto them, Peace be unto you.
37 But they were terrified and affrighted, and supposed that they had seen a spirit.
38 And he said unto them, Why are ye troubled? and why do thoughts arise in your hearts?
39 Behold my hands and my feet, that it is I myself: handle me, and see; for a spirit hath not flesh and bones, as ye see me have.
40 And when he had thus spoken, he shewed them his hands and his feet.
41 And while they yet believed not for joy, and wondered, he said unto them, Have ye here any meat?
42 And they gave him a piece of a broiled fish, and of an honeycomb.
43 And he took it, and did eat before them.” (Luke 24:36-43)
We have not seen with our eyes, the wonder fulfilled by Christ. But, I rejoice that Jesus opened my eyes to see the wondrous things in His Word. “The Wonder Of Wonders” is a beautiful Christmas song that was written by Charles B. Wycuff.
The Wonder of Wonders
1. The wonder of wonders as she looked on His face,
That this little boy spoke the worlds in their place;
The stars and the moon, shining brightly on them,
The earth and the sun were created by Him.
CHORUS
The wonder of wonders, oh, how could it be
That God became flesh and was given for me?
The Almighty came down and walked among men
And died on the cross for every man’s sin.
2. The wonder of wonders as she heard His small cry,
That this voice had thundered on Mount Sinai;
The hand that she held so tenderly,
Had made a dry path thru the mighty Red Sea.
3. The wonder of wonders as she looked down and smiled,
That He was her maker as well as her child;
He created the womb that had given Him birth
He was God incarnate, come down to the earth.
5. The Fear Of Things Not Seen
When our firstborn son, Matthew, was around three years old, he was sometimes afraid of the dark. We taught him to say, “What time I am afraid, I will trust in thee. Psalm 56, verse 3.” We never scolded our children for being afraid of the dark, but tried to soothe them, and teach them that Jesus was always watching over them. I think our biggest fears are things not seen. The reason that we are afraid of the dark is because we can’t see what is in the dark. We may hear noises in the dark, and can’t see what is making the noise. I enjoy going to the beach, but I have a fear of getting out very deep in the ocean, because I can’t see what is under the water. We can be afraid of going into surgery, because we can’t see what the outcome will be. Some are afraid of getting older, because they can’t see how their lives will change with age. We may be afraid of the future for our children and grandchildren because we can’t see how far into sin this world will go. With the increase in the cost of things, some may fear that they can’t supply the daily needs for them and their family. Jesus tells us, “But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.” (Matthew 6:33) And we have this promise in Philippians 4:19, “But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.” There are so many things in this world that we can’t see, and sometimes we can be afraid of the unknown, but we can put our trust in Jesus. When reading the New Testament we see many verses where Jesus said, “Fear not”, and “Be not afraid”. We don’t have to be afraid of things not seen. “For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.” (II Timothy 1:7)
6. The Pain Of Things Not Seen
When I began having pain in my abdomen I thought it was caused by something I was eating and I tried to keep track of the foods I ate. After several weeks the pain increased and I could not see what was causing it, so I went to the doctor. The physician could not see it, but scans and tests showed that I had cancer, and I had surgery to remove it. Many times when we are hurting, we can’t see what is causing the pain. I am thankful for modern medical tests that help doctors see and understand more about what causes our pain. There are other types of pain which we can’t see. When we lose someone suddenly, the pain may seem unbearable and we may say, “I didn’t see that coming.” The pain of a broken heart is very real, but we can find comfort in the Lord. “He healeth the broken in heart, and bindeth up their wounds.” (Psalm 147:3) We may see others hurting and we hurt with them, even though we can’t see what is causing their pain. The Apostle Paul tells us, “Bear ye one another's burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ.” (Galatians 6:2) We can become so burdened about something that it grieves us and causes us pain. Jesus gently calls, “Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” (Matthew 11:28) Peter also encourages us, “Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you.” (I Peter 5:17) In this world we have pain and suffering, but when we get to heaven the Lord will take away all of our pain. “And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away.” (Revelation 21:4)
7. Victory Over Things Not Seen
I am enjoying these thoughts on, “Things Not Seen.” The Lord continues to show me more about things that we don’t see. God used Pastor Rick Byerly’s sermon on Sunday to give me some of these thoughts on, “Victory Over Things Not Seen.” It is important to know the background for this story. “And the children of Israel did evil in the sight of the LORD: and the LORD delivered them into the hand of Midian seven years. And the hand of Midian prevailed against Israel: and because of the Midianites the children of Israel made them the dens which are in the mountains, and caves, and strong holds.” (Judges 6:1-2) The Midianites would steal the crops and food of the Israelites. Instead of threshing his wheat out in the open where the wind could blow away the chaff, Gideon was down in the winepress threshing his wheat to hide it from the enemy. The angel of the Lord appeared and called Gideon a “mighty man of valour.” Gideon did not see how he could be a mighty man of valor. He did not see how he could have victory over the Midianites. Notice his answer in verse 13, how he said, “…if the LORD be with us…” He did not see that the Lord was with them. He did not see any miracles of the Lord.
“12 And the angel of the LORD appeared unto him, and said unto him, The LORD is with thee, thou mighty man of valour.
13 And Gideon said unto him, Oh my Lord, if the LORD be with us, why then is all this befallen us? and where be all his miracles which our fathers told us of, saying, Did not the LORD bring us up from Egypt? but now the LORD hath forsaken us, and delivered us into the hands of the Midianites.
14 And the LORD looked upon him, and said, Go in this thy might, and thou shalt save Israel from the hand of the Midianites: have not I sent thee?
15 And he said unto him, Oh my Lord, wherewith shall I save Israel? behold, my family is poor in Manasseh, and I am the least in my father's house.
16 And the LORD said unto him, Surely I will be with thee, and thou shalt smite the Midianites as one man.” (Judges 6:12-16)
In verse 14 the Lord told him that he would save Israel from the hand of the Midianites, but Gideon did not see how he could save Israel. In verse 16 God told Gideon that He was with him and the victory was his! The Lord showed Gideon that He was the Lord, and He also gave him peace. “And the LORD said unto him, Peace be unto thee; fear not: thou shalt not die.” (Judges 6:23) God may call you for a special task. You may not see how you can do what He has asked. We have promises in God’s Word that give us peace, to trust in the Lord to give us victory. We can have victory even when we can’t see the way!
“Being confident of this very thing, that he which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ:” (Philippians 1:6)
“And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.” (Romans 8:28)
“This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success. Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the LORD thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest.” (Joshua 1:8-9)
“Call unto me, and I will answer thee, and shew thee great and mighty things, which thou knowest not.” (Jeremiah 33:3)
“28 Hast thou not known? hast thou not heard, that the everlasting God, the LORD, the Creator of the ends of the earth, fainteth not, neither is weary? there is no searching of his understanding.
29 He giveth power to the faint; and to them that have no might he increaseth strength.
30 Even the youths shall faint and be weary, and the young men shall utterly fall:
31 But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint.” (Isaiah 40:28-31)
“ Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.” (Proverbs 3:5-6)
“For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith.” (I John 5:4)
“But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.” (I Corinthians 15:57)
8. We Worry About Things Not Seen
Matthew, my oldest son, called me one day and told me that they had done a study and found that 85% of things we worry about never happen. Then, he said, “You know what that means, don’t you? That means we need to worry about more stuff!” I imagine that most of the stuff we worry about are things that we can’t even see. We worry about what’s going to happen. We hear some small hint that something bad is coming and that’s all we need to start worrying about it. Someone may see a weather prediction that we will have a cold winter with more ice and snow than last year, and begin to worry about it before fall has even begun. People who make television commercials for medication describe the symptoms of certain health issues so well it makes those who are watching worry that they need that medication. Commercials make one worry that she won’t be popular if she doesn’t wear certain clothes, or he won’t look his best if his teeth are not white. It’s sad that things we see make us worry about things we don’t see. In his letter to the church at Philippi, Paul told them to “Be careful for nothing”, that means, “Don’t worry about anything!” What can we do if we worry about things? Paul has an answer in Philippians 4:8. If we are thinking about bad things which make us worry, then we need to think about good things. Don’t worry about things you can’t see.
“6 Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God.
7 And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
8 Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.” (Philippians 4:6-8)
Jesus also told us not to worry about things.
“25 Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink; nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on. Is not the life more than meat, and the body than raiment?
26 Behold the fowls of the air: for they sow not, neither do they reap, nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feedeth them. Are ye not much better than they?
27 Which of you by taking thought can add one cubit unto his stature?
28 And why take ye thought for raiment? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they toil not, neither do they spin:
29 And yet I say unto you, That even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these.
30 Wherefore, if God so clothe the grass of the field, which to day is, and to morrow is cast into the oven, shall he not much more clothe you, O ye of little faith?
31 Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed?
32 (For after all these things do the Gentiles seek:) for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things.
33 But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.
34 Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof.” (Matthew 6:25-34)
9. The Glory Of Things Not Seen
Moses had been before Pharaoh with the plagues sent by God, and led God’s people out of Egypt. He held up the rod over the Red Sea and God took the Israelites across on dry ground. They won the battle against Amalek with the hand of God. When they came to Sinai, Moses went up into the mountain and God gave him the law of how they were to live and worship. As Moses came down from the mountain carrying the tables of stone written with by God, he saw the sin in the camp. The people were worshiping a golden calf. About 3,000 men died that day. Think of all that Moses had been through and how he must have felt. God said He would kill them all, and make a new nation for Moses to lead, but Moses prayed for the people. Do you think Moses felt like giving up? What can we do when we have done all we can, and the troubles keep getting worse? What can we do when we keep doing what’s right, and those around us are doing what’s wrong? I can tell you what Moses did. He had a talk with God. He told God that he needed someone to go with him, and he needed to know the way to go. And then he said, “Shew me thy glory.” I believe that it’s okay to tell God how we feel, and what we need. There are times in this life when our burdens are so heavy, and we can’t see the way to go, we have no one else to turn to, and all we can do is call out to God. We can’t see God, but we can be filled with His Spirit and feel His glory. I have been through hard times when I prayed like Moses and said, “Show me thy glory.” I am thankful that there is a place by God where we can stand on the Rock and know the glory of things not seen.
“12 And Moses said unto the LORD, See, thou sayest unto me, Bring up this people: and thou hast not let me know whom thou wilt send with me. Yet thou hast said, I know thee by name, and thou hast also found grace in my sight.
13 Now therefore, I pray thee, if I have found grace in thy sight, shew me now thy way, that I may know thee, that I may find grace in thy sight: and consider that this nation is thy people.
14 And he said, My presence shall go with thee, and I will give thee rest.
15 And he said unto him, If thy presence go not with me, carry us not up hence.
16 For wherein shall it be known here that I and thy people have found grace in thy sight? is it not in that thou goest with us? so shall we be separated, I and thy people, from all the people that are upon the face of the earth.
17 And the LORD said unto Moses, I will do this thing also that thou hast spoken: for thou hast found grace in my sight, and I know thee by name.
18 And he said, I beseech thee, shew me thy glory.
19 And he said, I will make all my goodness pass before thee, and I will proclaim the name of the LORD before thee; and will be gracious to whom I will be gracious, and will shew mercy on whom I will shew mercy.
20 And he said, Thou canst not see my face: for there shall no man see me, and live.
21 And the LORD said, Behold, there is a place by me, and thou shalt stand upon a rock:
22 And it shall come to pass, while my glory passeth by, that I will put thee in a clift of the rock, and will cover thee with my hand while I pass by:
23 And I will take away mine hand, and thou shalt see my back parts: but my face shall not be seen.” (Exodus 33:12-23)
10. The Time Of Death Is Not Seen
Tomorrow is the funeral of a dear Christian lady of our church. Angie was such a sweet person and I enjoyed the pictures she shared of her garden and her chickens, who all had names. As we continue thinking about “Things Not Seen” we can include the day of our death. We have the example of Isaac in the Old Testament. “And it came to pass, that when Isaac was old, and his eyes were dim, so that he could not see, he called Esau his eldest son, and said unto him, My son: and he said unto him, Behold, here am I. And he said, Behold now, I am old, I know not the day of my death:” (Genesis 27:1-2) As King Solomon looked over his life and wrote Ecclesiastes, he said, “There is no man that hath power over the spirit to retain the spirit; neither hath he power in the day of death: and there is no discharge in that war; neither shall wickedness deliver those that are given to it.” (Ecclesiastes 8:8) That line speaks volumes, “there is no discharge in that war…” There is no way to escape death. But, we can have victory over death. Jesus is the only way to have everlasting life. Believe that He came to die for you and pay for your sin. Ask Him to forgive you and repent of your sin. Trust in Him and He will save you. The time of death is not seen. Please turn to Jesus before it is too late.
“51 Behold, I shew you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed,
52 In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed.
53 For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality.
54 So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory.
55 O death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory?
56 The sting of death is sin; and the strength of sin is the law.
57 But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.
58 Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord.” (I Corinthians 15:51-58)
11. The Unseen Hand
There are things that we can’t see, but we know that they are present. For example, there’s oxygen. We can’t see it, but we can’t live without it. We can’t see the wind, but we can see the effects of the wind. “The wind bloweth where it listeth, and thou hearest the sound thereof, but canst not tell whence it cometh, and whither it goeth: so is every one that is born of the Spirit.” (John 3:8) An amazing example is the hand of God. God made us with His hand. “But now, O LORD, thou art our father; we are the clay, and thou our potter; and we all are the work of thy hand.” (Isaiah 64:8) “In whose hand is the soul of every living thing, and the breath of all mankind.” (Job 12:10) God holds us with His hand. “Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.” (Isaiah 41:10) “The Unseen Hand” is a wonderful old hymn written by A. J. Sims. Following the song are more Bible verses about God’s unseen hand.
“The Unseen Hand”
1 There is an unseen hand to me,
That leads through ways I cannot see;
While going through this world of woe,
This hand still leads me as I go.
Refrain:
I’m trusting in the unseen hand
That guides me through this weary land;
And some sweet day I’ll reach that strand,
Still guided by the unseen hand.
2 His hand has led through shadows drear,
And while it leads, I have no fear;
I know ’twill lead me to that home
Where sin and sorrow ne’er can come.
3 I long to see my Savior’s face
And sing the story "Saved by Grace,"
And there upon that golden strand,
I’ll praise Him for His guiding hand.
“10 Behold, the Lord GOD will come with strong hand, and his arm shall rule for him: behold, his reward is with him, and his work before him.
11 He shall feed his flock like a shepherd: he shall gather the lambs with his arm, and carry them in his bosom, and shall gently lead those that are with young.
12 Who hath measured the waters in the hollow of his hand, and meted out heaven with the span, and comprehended the dust of the earth in a measure, and weighed the mountains in scales, and the hills in a balance?” (Isaiah 40:10-12)
“I have made the earth, and created man upon it: I, even my hands, have stretched out the heavens, and all their host have I commanded.” (Isaiah 45:12)
“Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time:” (I Peter 5:6)
“For all this I considered in my heart even to declare all this, that the righteous, and the wise, and their works, are in the hand of God: no man knoweth either love or hatred by all that is before them.” (Ecclesiastes 9:1)
“There is nothing better for a man, than that he should eat and drink, and that he should make his soul enjoy good in his labour. This also I saw, that it was from the hand of God.” (Ecclesiastes 2:24)
“The steps of a good man are ordered by the LORD: and he delighteth in his way. Though he fall, he shall not be utterly cast down: for the LORD upholdeth him with his hand.” (Psalm 37:23-24)
12. We Can’t See Another Person’s Burden
We may be able to see that a person is going through hard times by the look on his face or by the situation someone is in, but can we really see their burden? My heart is broken for the people who lived in the mountains of North Carolina. I have seen photos of people on rooftops with the flood steadily rising, pictures of missing loved ones, and the flood waters washing away everything in its path. It is so sad to see the devastation. But, even then I can’t see their burdens because I have never been through their situation. Before I had cancer I would pray for people going through cancer and chemo, but I couldn’t see their burden until I went through it, too. Some try to hide their affliction and even their close family and friends may not see the load they bear. We don’t know if the checkout woman is worried that her children don’t have enough to eat. We may not see the scars of abuse a friend is hiding under long sleeves. The person that hit Michael’s car a few years ago had just come from chemotherapy. Caretakers looking after their elderly parents must have such a difficult burden. I used to look at the expression on faces and so many were so sad. What can we do? Be kind and patient. “And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you.” (Ephesians 4:32) Help bear someone’s burden. It is a blessing that so many are trying to reach out with food and water and other necessities to those with losses from the storm. “Bear ye one another's burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ.” (Galatians 6:2) Sometimes our burdens can be too heavy to bear. “For mine iniquities are gone over mine head: as an heavy burden they are too heavy for me.” (Psalm 38:4) Jesus is the answer. “Cast thy burden upon the LORD, and he shall sustain thee: he shall never suffer the righteous to be moved.” (Psalm 55:22)
“28 Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.
29 Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls.
30 For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” (Matthew 11:28)
13. Now We See Through A Glass, Darkly
I planned to use the title, “We Can’t See When The Lord Will Come”, but we have the scriptures to prepare us for that day. Paul tells us, “For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known.” (I Corinthians 13:12) So, even though we can’t see the day of His coming, as in knowing when He shall come, we will see Him when He comes. And we can see the signs of the time, like looking through a glass, darkly. We are living in the last days.
“1 This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come.
2 For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy,
3 Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good,
4 Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God;
5 Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away.” (II Timothy 3:1-5)
We also have the words of Jesus that tell us we don’t know the time. But, we are to “watch and pray” and also to be ready. “Take ye heed, watch and pray: for ye know not when the time is.” (Mark 13:33) “Therefore be ye also ready: for in such an hour as ye think not the Son of man cometh.” (Matthew 24:44) And as the world gets worse and worse, we are looking more and more for the Lord to come again. “Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ;” (Titus 2:13) I close with the closing words of the Word of God and say with John, “Even so, come, Lord Jesus.” “He which testifieth these things saith, Surely I come quickly. Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus. The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. Amen.” (Revelation 22:20-21)
14. We Can’t See The Future
We don’t know what is going to happen tomorrow, or in the next year, or even today. Seeing what will happen in the future is one of those things we can’t see. We have God’s Word to tell us what He wants us to know about what is going to happen, but there is much that we don’t know. When Elijah told Ahab that it would not rain until he said it would, I don’t think he worried about not having food and water. God told Elijah, “Get thee hence, and turn thee eastward, and hide thyself by the brook Cherith, that is before Jordan. And it shall be, that thou shalt drink of the brook; and I have commanded the ravens to feed thee there.” (I Kings 17:3-4) After the brook dried up, God told him that He had commanded a widow to feed him. “Arise, get thee to Zarephath, which belongeth to Zidon, and dwell there: behold, I have commanded a widow woman there to sustain thee.” (I Kings 17:9) When Elijah got to Zarephath, God was already there. We don’t need to worry about the future, because God is already there! Michael Key wrote this song for the graduating class of Hayworth Christian School a few years ago.
He's Already There
1. The child is born, and then it cries,
And far above, beyond the skies,
The Father smiles, for He already has His plan.
The child grows on, until one day,
Amazing Grace has its sweet way,
And now the child is guided by an unseen hand.
Chorus
We know that all things work for our good,
Though not the way we think they should,
And so we ask, in our confusion, "Does God care?"
We see the curve, but around the bend,
Oh, there's a place we've never been,
And then we find that God is already there.
2. Now from this night, your life you know,
Will have ups and downs, and as you go,
The doubts and fears, they can take away your smile.
Just walk by faith, and not by sight,
Through both the day, and through the night,
'Cause He's already there, and He's been there all the while.
He's already there, your need He will supply.
He's already there, with His ever watchful eye.
Yes, there'll be storms, you'll have your share,
And your path will wind, but God knows where,
So rest assured, He is already there.
We see the curve, but around the bend,
Oh, there's a place we've never been,
And then we find that God is already there.
15. We Can’t See Another Person’s Salvation
I have a simple thought today, but it is heavy on my heart. I am burdened for the souls of others. We can’t see the heart of someone to know if that person is saved or lost. We can see good works, but we are not saved by good works. Look at these words of Jesus…
“21 Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.
22 Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works?
23 And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.” (Matthew 7:21-23)
The disciples did not know that Judas Iscariot would betray Jesus. He had been with them all along.
“21 When Jesus had thus said, he was troubled in spirit, and testified, and said, Verily, verily, I say unto you, that one of you shall betray me.
22 Then the disciples looked one on another, doubting of whom he spake.
23 Now there was leaning on Jesus' bosom one of his disciples, whom Jesus loved.
24 Simon Peter therefore beckoned to him, that he should ask who it should be of whom he spake.
25 He then lying on Jesus' breast saith unto him, Lord, who is it?
26 Jesus answered, He it is, to whom I shall give a sop, when I have dipped it. And when he had dipped the sop, he gave it to Judas Iscariot, the son of Simon.
27 And after the sop Satan entered into him. Then said Jesus unto him, That thou doest, do quickly.
28 Now no man at the table knew for what intent he spake this unto him.
29 For some of them thought, because Judas had the bag, that Jesus had said unto him, Buy those things that we have need of against the feast; or, that he should give something to the poor.” (John 13:21-29)
Another example is from the Old Testament. Lot went down into Sodom and lived among the wicked people of the city. He could barely get his family out when the angels were going to destroy the city.
“14 And Lot went out, and spake unto his sons in law, which married his daughters, and said, Up, get you out of this place; for the LORD will destroy this city. But he seemed as one that mocked unto his sons in law.
15 And when the morning arose, then the angels hastened Lot, saying, Arise, take thy wife, and thy two daughters, which are here; lest thou be consumed in the iniquity of the city.
16 And while he lingered, the men laid hold upon his hand, and upon the hand of his wife, and upon the hand of his two daughters; the LORD being merciful unto him: and they brought him forth, and set him without the city.
17 And it came to pass, when they had brought them forth abroad, that he said, Escape for thy life; look not behind thee, neither stay thou in all the plain; escape to the mountain, lest thou be consumed.” (Genesis 19:14-17)
The New Testament tells us that Lot was righteous, even though he lived in a wicked place. We are not to judge others, but we must continue to pray that the Lord will open their eyes and save them if they are lost. If you are not sure about your salvation, please trust in the Lord now, so that you will not hear Him say, “I never knew you: depart from me.”
“6 And turning the cities of Sodom and Gomorrha into ashes condemned them with an overthrow, making them an ensample unto those that after should live ungodly;
7 And delivered just Lot, vexed with the filthy conversation of the wicked:
8 (For that righteous man dwelling among them, in seeing and hearing, vexed his righteous soul from day to day with their unlawful deeds;)
9 The Lord knoweth how to deliver the godly out of temptations, and to reserve the unjust unto the day of judgment to be punished:” (II Peter 2:6-9)
16. The Beauty Of Things Not Seen
Sometimes when the sun is going down the sky will glow with brilliant colors. I’ve tried taking pictures of it at times and the photo never does justice to the real beauty. I have seen pictures of beautiful flowers and beautiful birds, and creatures that live beneath the sea. I can only imagine how beautiful the earth was when God first created it. Just think how beautiful heaven must be! “For since the beginning of the world men have not heard, nor perceived by the ear, neither hath the eye seen, O God, beside thee, what he hath prepared for him that waiteth for him.” (Isaiah 64:4) We will see the beauty of God in His glory and holiness. Psalm 98:8 tells us, “O worship the LORD in the beauty of holiness: fear before him, all the earth.” Through the eyes of John, we have a glimpse of heaven. He saw the street of gold, and the precious jewels, and gates of pearl. We can only imagine the beauty of things not seen.
“10 And he carried me away in the spirit to a great and high mountain, and shewed me that great city, the holy Jerusalem, descending out of heaven from God,
11 Having the glory of God: and her light was like unto a stone most precious, even like a jasper stone, clear as crystal;
12 And had a wall great and high, and had twelve gates, and at the gates twelve angels, and names written thereon, which are the names of the twelve tribes of the children of Israel:
13 On the east three gates; on the north three gates; on the south three gates; and on the west three gates.
14 And the wall of the city had twelve foundations, and in them the names of the twelve apostles of the Lamb.
15 And he that talked with me had a golden reed to measure the city, and the gates thereof, and the wall thereof.
16 And the city lieth foursquare, and the length is as large as the breadth: and he measured the city with the reed, twelve thousand furlongs. The length and the breadth and the height of it are equal.
17 And he measured the wall thereof, an hundred and forty and four cubits, according to the measure of a man, that is, of the angel.
18 And the building of the wall of it was of jasper: and the city was pure gold, like unto clear glass.
19 And the foundations of the wall of the city were garnished with all manner of precious stones. The first foundation was jasper; the second, sapphire; the third, a chalcedony; the fourth, an emerald;
20 The fifth, sardonyx; the sixth, sardius; the seventh, chrysolite; the eighth, beryl; the ninth, a topaz; the tenth, a chrysoprasus; the eleventh, a jacinth; the twelfth, an amethyst.
21 And the twelve gates were twelve pearls; every several gate was of one pearl: and the street of the city was pure gold, as it were transparent glass.
22 And I saw no temple therein: for the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are the temple of it.
23 And the city had no need of the sun, neither of the moon, to shine in it: for the glory of God did lighten it, and the Lamb is the light thereof.
24 And the nations of them which are saved shall walk in the light of it: and the kings of the earth do bring their glory and honour into it.
25 And the gates of it shall not be shut at all by day: for there shall be no night there.
26 And they shall bring the glory and honour of the nations into it.
27 And there shall in no wise enter into it any thing that defileth, neither whatsoever worketh abomination, or maketh a lie: but they which are written in the Lamb's book of life.
1 And he shewed me a pure river of water of life, clear as crystal, proceeding out of the throne of God and of the Lamb.
2 In the midst of the street of it, and on either side of the river, was there the tree of life, which bare twelve manner of fruits, and yielded her fruit every month: and the leaves of the tree were for the healing of the nations.” (Revelation 21:10-27 and 22:1-2)
17. The Evidence Of Things Not Seen
I have heard people describe faith as believing something blindly, like walking in the dark. They do not understand that walking by faith is walking in the light of the Lord. The writer of the book of Hebrews gives us a better understanding of faith. Yes, having faith, is believing in the things of God which we have not seen, but the Spirit of God opens our eyes to see what the world can’t see. Here are the first few verses in the faith chapter in Hebrews 11:1-10. Like Abraham, I am looking for that city, whose builder and maker is God!
“1 Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.
2 For by it the elders obtained a good report.
3 Through faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that things which are seen were not made of things which do appear.
4 By faith Abel offered unto God a more excellent sacrifice than Cain, by which he obtained witness that he was righteous, God testifying of his gifts: and by it he being dead yet speaketh.
5 By faith Enoch was translated that he should not see death; and was not found, because God had translated him: for before his translation he had this testimony, that he pleased God.
6 But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.
7 By faith Noah, being warned of God of things not seen as yet, moved with fear, prepared an ark to the saving of his house; by the which he condemned the world, and became heir of the righteousness which is by faith.
8 By faith Abraham, when he was called to go out into a place which he should after receive for an inheritance, obeyed; and he went out, not knowing whither he went.
9 By faith he sojourned in the land of promise, as in a strange country, dwelling in tabernacles with Isaac and Jacob, the heirs with him of the same promise:
10 For he looked for a city which hath foundations, whose builder and maker is God.”
18. Asking Why, When We Can’t See The Answer
When I was in school, we were instructed to cover the basic questions in our writing: Who?, What?, Where?, When?, How?, and Why? The “Why?” questions were always the hardest for me. Many times in my life, when problems come along and things are hard, we are prone to question why. I think that we feel it would be easier to bear if we understand why something is happening. But, we often can’t see why. Those in the paths of the destruction of Helene may be asking, “Why did this happen to us?” There are people in sick beds asking, “Why?” When we go through trials it is hard when we can’t see the reason. I have heard people say that we shouldn’t ask God “Why?” But, we have examples in the Bible of people who turned to God for answers. The disciples wanted to know why a man was born blind. “And his disciples asked him, saying, Master, who did sin, this man, or his parents, that he was born blind?” (John 9:2) Have you ever asked God why He didn’t answer your prayers, or why bad things keep happening? The prophets did. “O LORD, how long shall I cry, and thou wilt not hear! even cry out unto thee of violence, and thou wilt not save! Why dost thou shew me iniquity, and cause me to behold grievance? for spoiling and violence are before me: and there are that raise up strife and contention.” (Habakkuk 1:2-3) Have you ever asked God why you were suffering? Job did.
“Why died I not from the womb? why did I not give up the ghost when I came out of the belly?”
Why is light given to a man whose way is hid, and whom God hath hedged in?
I have sinned; what shall I do unto thee, O thou preserver of men? why hast thou set me as a mark against thee, so that I am a burden to myself?” (Job 3:11, 23 and 7:20)
David, and the writers of so many beautiful Psalms, asked God, “Why?” And Jesus quoted Psalm 22 from the cross. “And about the ninth hour Jesus cried with a loud voice, saying, Eli, Eli, lama sabachthani? that is to say, My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?” (Matthew 27:46)
“Why do the heathen rage, and the people imagine a vain thing?
Why standest thou afar off, O LORD? why hidest thou thyself in times of trouble?
My God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me? why art thou so far from helping me, and from the words of my roaring?” (Psalm 2:1, 10:1, and 22:1)
Sometimes it is helpful to cry out to God for help, even when we ask why. It can also help us to remember Romans 8:28, “And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.” It is important to remember that God is in control and that God is good. We can go through the hard times even when we don’t have answers to the
Why?”, when we trust in the Lord. “Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.” (Proverbs 3:5)
19. We Can’t See The Ways Of The Lord
There are some wonderful verses in the book of Isaiah. This portion of scripture calls us to seek the Lord. You may feel like you can’t be forgiven, that there is not hope for your sin, but God will forgive if you call on Him. There is also a message to us to be witnesses for the Lord. Keep praying for the lost. Keep giving out the message that Jesus saves. Don’t get discouraged. We can’t see how the Lord may be using the gospel tracts we hand out. We may not know the fullness of how God has used kind words that we have spoken. God tells us that His Word will not return void. These verses made me think of those who are sending help to the flood victims. We are not there to see how far kindness can reach. We can’t see how our prayers may be helping those in need, but God will accomplish His will.
“6 Seek ye the LORD while he may be found, call ye upon him while he is near:
7 Let the wicked forsake his way, and the unrighteous man his thoughts: and let him return unto the LORD, and he will have mercy upon him; and to our God, for he will abundantly pardon.
8 For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the LORD.
9 For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts.
10 For as the rain cometh down, and the snow from heaven, and returneth not thither, but watereth the earth, and maketh it bring forth and bud, that it may give seed to the sower, and bread to the eater:
11 So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it.” (Isaiah 55:6-11)
20. We Can’t See What’s In A Wrapped Gift
Do you know that Christmas is only two and a half months away? I love Christmas! It is our celebration of God’s gift to us. We have been getting a few things for gifts and stockings as we see them. With such a large family we have to start shopping early to get it done before Christmas. I enjoy trying to find a special gift for each person. I can shop early, but I can’t wrap early. After the present is wrapped and I can’t see what is in it, I am afraid that I will forget what it is. We can’t see what is in a wrapped gift. And we can’t enjoy a gift until we accept it. God gave us the “unspeakable gift.” “Thanks be unto God for his unspeakable gift.” (II Corinthians 9:15) “For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God:” (Ephesians 2:8) Those who are lost and have never accepted God’s gift of salvation can’t see all that comes with it. They can’t experience the love, and joy, and peace that God gives to His children. They don’t know how it feels to be free from the burden of sin. When we believe in Jesus and trust in Him to save us, He gives us so much more than a home in heaven. James tells us that “Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.” (James 1:17) If you have never asked Jesus to save you, then you don’t know what you are missing!
21. “Blessed Are They That Have Not Seen, And Yet Have Believed”
The disciples followed Jesus and heard His teaching, and saw the miracles He performed. They believed in Him, but they did not believe that He rose from the dead until they saw Him. After Jesus was crucified and the women went to the tomb, they saw Jesus and went back to tell the disciples. Thomas is often called “Doubting Thomas” but we see in Luke 24:11 that the eleven disciples didn’t believe.
“9 And returned from the sepulchre, and told all these things unto the eleven, and to all the rest.
10 It was Mary Magdalene, and Joanna, and Mary the mother of James, and other women that were with them, which told these things unto the apostles.
11 And their words seemed to them as idle tales, and they believed them not.” (Luke 24:9-11)
Then, Jesus appeared to them in a closed room, but Thomas was not there and he still did not believe. He only believed after he saw Jesus. “Jesus saith unto him, Thomas, because thou hast seen me, thou hast believed: blessed are they that have not seen, and yet have believed.” (John 20:29) We truly are blessed that the truth of the gospel has been carried down to each generation. It is wonderful that God has given us His Word so that we can believe! One day we will see Jesus! “Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is.” (I John 3:2)
“19 Then the same day at evening, being the first day of the week, when the doors were shut where the disciples were assembled for fear of the Jews, came Jesus and stood in the midst, and saith unto them, Peace be unto you.
20 And when he had so said, he shewed unto them his hands and his side. Then were the disciples glad, when they saw the Lord.
21 Then said Jesus to them again, Peace be unto you: as my Father hath sent me, even so send I you.
22 And when he had said this, he breathed on them, and saith unto them, Receive ye the Holy Ghost:
23 Whose soever sins ye remit, they are remitted unto them; and whose soever sins ye retain, they are retained.
24 But Thomas, one of the twelve, called Didymus, was not with them when Jesus came.
25 The other disciples therefore said unto him, We have seen the Lord. But he said unto them, Except I shall see in his hands the print of the nails, and put my finger into the print of the nails, and thrust my hand into his side, I will not believe.
26 And after eight days again his disciples were within, and Thomas with them: then came Jesus, the doors being shut, and stood in the midst, and said, Peace be unto you.
27 Then saith he to Thomas, Reach hither thy finger, and behold my hands; and reach hither thy hand, and thrust it into my side: and be not faithless, but believing.
28 And Thomas answered and said unto him, My Lord and my God.
29 Jesus saith unto him, Thomas, because thou hast seen me, thou hast believed: blessed are they that have not seen, and yet have believed.
30 And many other signs truly did Jesus in the presence of his disciples, which are not written in this book:
31 But these are written, that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing ye might have life through his name.” (John 20:19-31)
22. We Can’t See Time Passing
Today is Saturday. Each week when I begin typing the devotion for Saturday, I am amazed that another week has passed. I don’t know how many times in my life I have heard someone say, “Where does the time go?” We can’t see time passing. We can see changes that time makes. It is fun to see my memories come up on Facebook and see photos of my grandchildren four, eight, or some of them twelve years ago. They have grown so much. As for me, I have changed and look older with each passing year. Another thing about time passing is how we can put off something today, and then months later realize that we never finished the task. Time passes so quickly. Minutes turn into days, which turn into weeks and months, then years come and go. The older I get the faster time seems to go, and I don’t see it passing even though it is carrying me along with it. James 4:14 tells us, “Whereas ye know not what shall be on the morrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapour, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away.” I mentioned earlier that we can’t see the future. If you have never trusted in Jesus as your Savior, please don’t wait too long. We are not promised tomorrow. The writer of Hebrews stresses that we need to hear His voice and believe today. Please don’t put it off another day.
“Wherefore (as the Holy Ghost saith, To day if ye will hear his voice, Harden not your hearts, as in the provocation, in the day of temptation in the wilderness:” (Hebrews 3:7-8)
“While it is said, To day if ye will hear his voice, harden not your hearts, as in the provocation.” (Hebrews 3:15)
“Again, he limiteth a certain day, saying in David, To day, after so long a time; as it is said, To day if ye will hear his voice, harden not your hearts.” (Hebrews 4:7)
