Proverbs 20:12 Ears that hear and eyes that see— the LORD has made them both. (NIV)
This verse struck me because it is so full of nuance. There is a vast difference between looking and actually seeing. For instance, when I am driving, I am concentrating on the road, paying careful attention to where I’m going. But I might miss you waving at me from a passing car, even if I’m looking right at you. I’m looking, I’m seeing, but I’m not fully paying attention.
Proverbs 20:12 The LORD has given us eyes to see with and ears to listen with. (GNT)
The same is true for listening and hearing. I can hear the words coming out of your mouth and miss their true meaning. Ask people how they are and really pay attention to their answers and you’ll see what I mean. The New Testament is full of instances where people who can see and hear are not paying attention. So is daily life.
Proverbs 20:12 Hearing and seeing are gifts from the LORD. (CEV)
Lord, Thank You for this day and this scripture. Thank You for the understanding that we must go beyond the surface to really look and listen so that we can connect with Your people in this suffering world. Thank You for giving me eyes to see and ears to hear. Help me to pay attention, to use them to draw closer to You and to shine Your light for others. Amen.
Proverbs 20:12 The hearing ear, and the seeing eye, the LORD hath made even both of them. (ERV)
Have a blessed day.