Seeing God Clearly: A Life-Altering Perspective
The start of a new year often stirs a mix of emotions. Some feel energized and ready to tackle fresh goals, while others may find themselves stumbling forward, unsure of what’s ahead. Regardless of where you find yourself, there is one unchanging truth: God’s plans for you are not finished. As long as you’re here, there is purpose in your life. This reality shifts everything, offering hope and vision for what lies ahead. Click the link above for the full message.
1 Peter 5:10 reminds us: “And after you have suffered a little while, the God of all grace, who has called you to his eternal glory in Christ, will himself restore, confirm, strengthen, and establish you.”
A Fresh Start: Seeing God as He Truly Is
Our perspective shapes our lives. How we see God directly influences how we navigate challenges, relationships, and our purpose. Yet, in a culture filled with distorted views of God, our vision can easily become foggy. When we begin to see God clearly, it transforms how we live, worship, and trust. Proverbs 3:5-6 provides a foundational truth:
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”
Let this be the year we reset our spiritual vision, pursuing clarity in our understanding of God’s character and His plans for us.
Isaiah’s Vision: A Clear Encounter with God
Isaiah 6 paints a striking picture of encountering God. This was a time of political and moral uncertainty for Israel, but Isaiah’s vision re-centered everything. He saw the Lord “high and exalted, seated on a throne; and the train of his robe filled the temple” (Isaiah 6:1). Surrounding Him were seraphim proclaiming:
“Holy, holy, holy is the Lord Almighty; the whole earth is full of his glory” (Isaiah 6:3).
This encounter with God’s holiness left Isaiah undone. He exclaimed, “Woe to me! I am ruined! For I am a man of unclean lips, and I live among a people of unclean lips” (Isaiah 6:5). In God’s presence, Isaiah’s own brokenness became evident.
But God didn’t leave him there. A seraph touched Isaiah’s lips with a live coal, symbolizing purification and forgiveness. This act not only cleansed Isaiah but prepared him for his calling. God’s holiness reveals our sin, but His grace equips us for our purpose.
God’s Holiness and Sovereignty
Isaiah’s vision reminds us of God’s sovereignty and holiness. Even in times of instability, God’s throne remains occupied. Psalm 103:19 declares, “The Lord has established his throne in heaven, and his kingdom rules over all.”
God’s holiness is not merely an abstract concept. It is a disruptive, awe-inspiring reality. When we recognize His holiness, we are drawn to worship with reverence and awe. Hebrews 12:28-29 encourages us:
“Let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe, for our God is a consuming fire.”
In a world that often idolizes self-expression and relevance, God’s glory invites us to lay aside self-centeredness and center our lives on Him.
Responding to God’s Call
After experiencing God’s holiness and grace, Isaiah’s response was one of surrender. When God asked, “Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?” Isaiah replied, “Here am I. Send me!” (Isaiah 6:8).
God’s goodness equips us to step into our calling with confidence. His grace assures us that we are not alone. Psalm 27:13 beautifully captures this hope: “I remain confident of this: I will see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living.”
Practical Steps to See God Clearly
Seeing God clearly transforms our thoughts, priorities, and actions. Romans 12:1-2 challenges us to offer our lives as living sacrifices and to be transformed by the renewing of our minds. Here are some practical ways to gain clarity:
Prayer: Spend time daily in prayer, asking God to reveal Himself to you.
Fasting: Consider giving up something for a season to focus more fully on God.
Scripture: Dive into God’s Word, allowing it to reorient your understanding of who He is.
Worship: Create space for regular worship, both individually and in community.
As we intentionally pursue God, the fog lifts, and His purpose for our lives becomes clearer.
The Invitation for 2025
What will you do with the vision of God’s holiness, glory, and goodness? This year, the invitation is to seek Him with intentionality. Surrender distractions and lesser loves. Commit to prayer, fasting, and worship as you pursue clarity. Lift your eyes and look for the marks of His grace in your life.
Isaiah’s encounter with God wasn’t just a moment; it was a turning point. Let this be the year you see God clearly and allow that vision to transform every aspect of your life.
Further Reading
Seeing and Savoring Jesus Christ by John Piper
Other Links
Want to hear more? Check out last week’s message titled, Overcoming Fear: Trusting God in Uncertainty here.
Explore additional resources and Bible studies at www.viewchurch.co/resources.