My struggle with impaired vision began in elementary school. Thankfully, a teacher noticed that I was straining to see the chalkboard. I was also regularly complaining of headaches. She called my parents with her concerns.

A trip to the optometrist determined that I was severely nearsighted. I got my first pair of eyeglasses in the fifth grade, and I instantly enjoyed the crisp and clear sight they provided. But the relief was short-lived as my vision soon deteriorated again and I needed new glasses.

Over the last four decades, I’ve made dozens of trips to the eye doctor. I can always tell when it’s time to go back because my eyesight starts to get blurry again. Despite the need for regular readjustments, however, I am grateful for the technological developments in optometry that continue to effectively correct my vision.

It’s important to take care of our spiritual eyes as well. In fact, regular visits with the Great Physician are essential for keeping our spiritual eyesight crisp and clear.

In Matthew 6:22–23, Jesus said, “If your eyes are healthy, your whole body will be full of light. But if your eyes are unhealthy, your whole body will be full of darkness” (NIV).

Of course, He was not talking about the eyes in our head but those in our spirit.

We view every person and circumstance in our lives through a spiritual lens; therefore, we must be diligent in how we care for that vision. If our sight is out of whack, we cannot view life from an eternal perspective. Nor can we look at others with the same loving eyes that Jesus has.

Before we know Him, we are spiritually blind and cannot see the things that reveal God’s glory, like creation and the truth of scripture (1 Corinthians 2:14). But with the help of the Holy Spirit, our eyes miraculously open to our need for the salvation that comes only from Jesus.

Once He lives in our hearts, we begin to see things about ourselves, our sins, and the world around us in new ways. The apostle Paul prayed for all of us who become believers to have the eyes of our hearts enlightened so we can know the hope He brings (Ephesians 1:18).

Just like with my physical eyesight, I can tell when my spiritual vision is getting blurry. I know when I need an adjustment.

If I’m paying attention, I’ll realize that my discontent comes from not looking at my life with gratitude. My judgmental or impatient attitude is evidence that I’m forgetting to offer others the same grace and mercy that God gives me every day. When I’m consumed by the need for approval from those around me, then I know my eyes are fixed on everything else but Jesus.

Is your outlook on life currently distorted and unhealthy? Are you noticing the faults and shortcomings of others more frequently? Is a positive outcome to a tough situation difficult for you to envision?

If you answered yes to any of those questions, it might be time to get your eyes checked.

Spend some quiet time with the Lord and ask Him to show you why your spiritual vision is declining. Only He can help you see again clearly. Allow Him to search your heart for the sin or distractions that have clouded your perspective. Invite Him to restore your sight so you can again see the light in the darkness and blessings amid trials.

If you visit Him regularly and willingly allow Him to adjust your lenses, your vision will always be sharp.

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CHRISTINA KIMBREL serves as VL’s production manager. Once incarcerated, she now ministers hope to those held captive by their past and current circumstances while sharing the message of healing she found in Jesus.