20/20 Vision: Eyes On Jesus Sample

Beware of Haughty Eyes 

It may come as no surprise to you that the Lord hates haughty eyes, but as our culture becomes increasingly focused on self, this becomes an important thing to remember. For us to avoid being haughty, we need to understand what it means. According to volcabulary.com  “someone who is haughty is arrogant and full of pride.” It is easy to point at others, but we all have a tendency to be self-focused. 

Consider the last time you took a group photo. When you reviewed the photos on your smartphone, the first person that you looked at in the group was likely you. When deciding which photo to share on social media, you likely selected the one that best featured you. I call this “selfie vision”, a phrase I coined defined as “the limiting or narrowing of one’s scope of vision to the self and the consequential failure to see, recognize, and appreciate others”. This concept is increasingly common and carries cultural ramifications. The world says, “Look at me. It is all about me!” Whereas, the Bible tells us to do the opposite, “Look at Jesus. It is all about Him.” 

Philippians 2:3 says “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves.” Remember, haughty eyes are not far behind an inflated view of self. May we humble ourselves, detest haughty eyes, and forsake “selfie vision” so that we may see, recognize, and appreciate those around us. 

On the scale from humble to haughty, where do you fall? Ask God to give you a clear picture of where you land, and an idea of what to do in moving forward towards humility and Christlikeness. 

A Prayer: 

Dear Lord, We know that you look upon the humble, but hate haughty eyes. Lord, make us pure and blameless before you. Please rid us of sin, selfishness, and pride, and fill us with your Holy Spirit. Lord, we need a heart like yours that is overflowing with your love for others. May we see, recognize, and appreciate those created in your image. In Jesus’ name, Amen.