Seeing People, Not Distractions

Scripture:

Matthew 9:36 (ESV)
36 When he saw the crowds, he had compassion for them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd.

Devotional Thought:

The lust of the eyes doesn’t only distort what we desire — it distorts how we see people. When our vision is shaped by distraction, comparison, and self-interest, we begin to overlook the needs right in front of us.

Scripture tells us that when Jesus looked at the crowds, He didn’t see interruptions or inconveniences — He saw people in need of compassion. His vision was not driven by desire for comfort or recognition. It was driven by love.

The lust of the eyes trains us to look past people and focus on what benefits us. It pulls our attention toward screens, schedules, and self-centered goals. Over time, our hearts become dull to the needs of others.

Fasting helps restore compassionate vision. As distractions lose their hold, our sensitivity to people increases. God begins to realign our eyes with His heart. We start noticing what we used to ignore. We start caring where we used to rush.

Today, we ask the Lord to help us see people the way He sees them.

Prayer Focus:

• Ask God to reveal where distraction has made you spiritually insensitive

• Pray for eyes to see people with compassion and clarity

• Ask the Holy Spirit to soften your heart toward those in need

• Surrender busyness and self-focus that blind you to others

Prayer:

“Lord, give me eyes to see people the way You do. Remove distractions that have dulled my compassion. Soften my heart and align my vision with Yours. Help me notice needs and respond with love. Amen.”