Behold, the eye of the LORD is upon them that fear Him, upon them that hope in His mercy;
To deliver their soul from death, and to keep them alive in famine.
Psalms 33:18-19
While the eyes of the Lord are on all people (as in verses 14-15), they rest in a special way on those who fear Him. (Also Psalm 34:15 “the eyes of the Lord are on the righteous and His ears are attentive to their cry…”)
‘God’s eye’ refers to God’s caring love and providential oversight of our lives—‘to deliver them from death and famine.’ This means that as long as we fear the Lord our hope in Him waits for Him and remains in His will. God will watch over and protect us so that we will not die unless it be according to His plan.
Recently I read a story that is just too good to keep to myself, so I’d like to share it with you this week.
“The only survivor of a shipwreck was washed up on a small, uninhabited island. He prayed feverishly for God to rescue him. Every day he scanned the horizon for help, but none seemed forthcoming.
Exhausted, he eventually managed to build a little hut out of driftwood to protect himself from the elements, and to store his few possessions.
One day, after scavenging for food, he arrived home to find his little hut in flames, with smoke rolling up to the sky. He felt that the worst had happened and everything was lost. He was stunned with disbelief, grief, and anger. He cried out, ‘God! How could you do this to me?’
Early the next day, he was awakened by the sound of a ship approaching the island! It had come to rescue him!
‘How did you know I was here?’ asked the weary man of his rescuers. ‘We saw your smoke signal,’ they replied.”
Sometimes it’s hard to see God’s hand at work in your life. He may seem hidden, far away, or totally out of reach, yet nothing could be farther from the truth! Your tender Savior is always watching over you, and always at work behind the scenes. As you pass through the waters and look back, you’ll see the way He worked on your behalf. Remember, although you might not be able to see His hand, you can trust His heart.
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Our Father, we thank You for Your eyes that are watching over us as Your own chosen generation, a royal priesthood. Make us a people of Your heart by increasing our faith and trust in You always. Help us understand Your oracles and remain under Your wings forever. In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.
