Scripture References: Psalm 119:18; Matthew 6:22-34; Psalm 8:3-4; Psalm 19:1-4; Romans 1:19-21; Matthew 11:25-26
Intro: In lives often filled with anxiety, busyness, and a focus on problems, God invites us into something different: wonder and awe. This isn't about ignoring reality, but about intentionally shifting our perspective to see His goodness and presence, starting perhaps with the simple prayer, "Open my eyes that I may see wonders" (Psalm 119:18).
Key Points:
- The Wonder Deficit: Our modern lives often lack wonder. We're stressed, anxious, easily bored, seeking constant entertainment, and often disconnected from the awe God designed us for. This leads to dull hearts focused on lack.
- Creation Shouts God's Glory: God reveals Himself powerfully through creation (Psalm 19:1-4). Intentionally observing nature – the birds He feeds, the flowers He clothes (Matt 6:25-34) – reminds us of His faithfulness, detailed care, power, and beauty. It helps "right-size" God and ourselves (Psalm 8:3-4).
- Wonder Leads to Thanksgiving: Paying attention to God's work around us cultivates wonder. Wonder naturally overflows into thankfulness as we recognize His abundant provision and goodness, gifts we didn't earn or create.
- Thanksgiving Fuels Generosity: A heart filled with wonder and thanksgiving sees abundance, not scarcity. Recognizing God's generosity towards us frees us to be generous towards others. It shifts focus from self-preservation to sharing the overflow.
- Obstacles to Wonder:
- Ingratitude: Failing to acknowledge God or give thanks despite His evident glory leads to darkened hearts (Rom 1:21).
- "Bad Eye": Focusing on lack, worry, earthly security blinds us to spiritual realities and God's provision (Matt 6:22-23).
- Lack of Childlike Faith: Wonder requires humility and openness. Intellectual pride can hinder us from receiving God's simple revelations (Matt 11:25-26).
- Cultivating the "Good Eye": A "good eye" sees Christ as supremely valuable, delights in God's gifts, trusts His provision, and practices thankfulness, leading to a life full of light.
Conclusion: God invites us out of anxiety and distraction into a life marked by wonder, awe, and thankfulness. This requires intentionally training our eyes to see His handiwork and presence, cultivating childlike humility, and choosing gratitude over grumbling. This perspective shift changes everything.
Call to Action:
- Pray: "Open my eyes, Lord, that I may see wonders."
- Practice Paying Attention: Spend time intentionally observing creation (even just birds outside your window). Ask God what He wants to show you.
- Cultivate Gratitude: Start small. Name simple blessings daily and allow thankfulness to grow.
- Choose Wonder Over Worry: When anxious, consciously shift your focus to God's faithfulness and provision revealed in His Word and world.
- Embrace Childlike Faith: Be willing to be amazed by God's simple gifts and presence.
*Summaries and transcripts are generated using AI.
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