Read Psalm 119:33-40 33Teach me, O Lord, the way of your statutes; and I will keep it to the end. 34Give me understanding, that I may keep your law and observe it with my whole heart. 35Lead me in the path of your commandments, for I delight in it. 36Incline my heart to your testimonies, and not to selfish gain! 37Turn my eyes from looking at worthless things; and give me life in your ways. 38Confirm to your servant your promise, that you may be feared. 39Turn away the reproach that I dread, for your rules are good. 40Behold, I long for your precepts; in your righteousness give me life!
There may be no more appropriate prayer for us today than this one from Psalm 119 – Turn my eyes from looking at worthless things. The word worthless carries a wide range of meanings, from useless to evil. With all of our viewing options today I’m sure you can relate. From Netflix to Instagram how many hours a day are spent in worthless viewing? Useless at best. Evil at worst.
This is not meant to be a condemnation of all social media and entertainment though. The word worthless is also quite often used to describe idols. So turn my eyes from worshiping anything other than you, O Lord. Turn my eyes back to your love in Christ on the cross. Turn my eyes inward to the Spirit of Christ living in me, pouring your love and mercy into my very soul.
All spiritual growth comes by beholding (2 Cor. 3:18). By looking with faith eyes at the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ (2 Cor. 4:6).
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.
To live is Christ is to fix our eyes on Jesus the author and perfector of our faith. We can’t just turn our eyes from the worthless, we must find a new vision, THE vision of Christ and his life.
You: How much time do you spend on worthless viewing?
You in Christ: In Christ we can constantly behold him in his word and in one another. Practice seeing Christ in others rather than seeing others as worthless.
Christ in you: What idols can Christ in you help you to turn away from today, and cast your vision on his cross instead?
Pray: Jesus, turn my eyes from the worthless to the wonderful – You! Amen.
To Live is Christ 