Seeing the Future Through God's Eyes: A Meditation on Vision and Promise

January 28, 2025

I have a God who can make a way  in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.

Life can often feel like a winding road, sometimes shrouded in mist, making it difficult to see the path ahead. We may find ourselves fixated on past disappointments, failures, and hurts, which cloud our vision for the future. But as Christians, we are called to see beyond the present circumstances, to embrace a vision rooted in God's Word and promises. Today, we'll delve into Isaiah 43, exploring the transformative power of vision and how it can empower us to live a life of purpose and abundance. Let us open our hearts and minds to see the future through God's eyes.

The Peril of Sight Without Vision:

"The only thing worse than being blind is having sight but no vision." - Helen Keller

These profound words from Helen Keller, a woman who navigated the world without physical sight, highlight the critical difference between merely seeing and truly having vision. We can go through life with our physical eyes open, yet be completely blind to the opportunities, the potential, and the divine purpose that God has woven into our very existence. Without a vision grounded in God's Word, we become like ships without rudders, tossed about by the waves of circumstance, lacking direction and purpose. We may even find ourselves engaging in destructive behaviors, "casting off restraint" as Proverbs warns, because we lack a clear understanding of God's plan for our lives.

Proverbs 29:18 (NIV): Where there is no revelation, people cast off restraint; but blessed is the one who heeds wisdom’s instruction. 

 This verse underscores the importance of seeking God's revelation, His wisdom, and His guidance. It is through His Word and through prayer that we gain the vision we need to live a life pleasing to Him.

Releasing the Past:

We often find ourselves caught in a cycle of dwelling on past failures. It is not uncommon to think, "I tried this business, and it was a complete disaster. Every time I attempt something new, I remember all the things that went wrong." This tendency to focus on the negative is a common human experience. We replay moments where our efforts fell short, fixating on the "flop" while forgetting our successes. This negative focus becomes a significant barrier, hindering our ability to move forward and embrace a new vision.

Breaking free from this mindset is challenging, but Scripture encourages us to let go of the past. We are reminded not to "consider the things of old." Before knowing God and understanding His plan for our lives, we operated based on our limited understanding and past experiences. However, now that we know God as our source, guide, and Father, we are no longer weighed down by past failures.

As children of God, armed with His promises and empowered by His Spirit, we can move forward with confidence. Even if we have stumbled before, God is our strength and shield. He calls us to break free from the chains of the past and invites us to let go of the "former things" and embrace the new things He is doing.

Isaiah 43:18-19 (NIV): “Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.”

This passage is a powerful reminder that God is not limited by our past. He is a God of redemption, restoration, and renewal. He is constantly at work, creating new opportunities, opening new doors, and making a way even in the most desolate of circumstances. He makes rivers flow in the desert, symbolizing His ability to bring life and abundance where there seems to be only barrenness. He challenges us to perceive this new thing He is doing, to open our eyes to the possibilities that lie ahead when we trust in Him.

Embracing God's Promises:

"I have a God who can make a way even in the wilderness."

This declaration of faith is the cornerstone of a life lived with vision. It is the unwavering belief that God is faithful to His promises, that He is our provider, our protector, and our guide. It is the understanding that even when we find ourselves in challenging circumstances, in the "wilderness" of life, God is with us, making a way for us. He is our rock, our fortress, our deliverer – the one who sets our feet on solid ground and leads us towards His perfect will. This confidence in God's promises empowers us to step out in faith, to pursue the vision He has placed in our hearts, knowing that He will equip us and empower us to fulfill His purpose.

Reflect on This:

1. What past experiences are hindering me from embracing God's vision for my future?

2. How can I actively cultivate a vision rooted in God's Word and promises? What practical steps can you take to deepen your understanding of God's Word and align your vision with His will?

   
   

Prayer:

Father, I thank you for the vision you have placed within my heart. I choose to release my past and fully embrace the new thing you are doing in my life. I declare that I am walking in your promises, seeing your hand at work in every area of my life. I am confident that you are making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland. Empower me to see with your eyes and to live a life that reflects your glory. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Key Takeaways:

• God's vision for us is not limited by our circumstances.

• Without a God-given vision, we lack direction and purpose.

• We must release the past to embrace God's promises for the future.

• God is making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.

• Our vision should be rooted in God's Word and promises.

To dive deeper into this powerful message, watch the full sermon on our YouTube video below.

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