Daily Devotional | The God Who Sees

Violet Jessop was one of the 706 people who survived the Titanic. What sets her apart is that she also survived the destruction of both Titanic’s sister ships. Violet had a will to live and to overcome difficult situations. While you may have not faced “Titanic” hardships, we all face challenges.

In Genesis 16, we read about 3 people who faced a difficult situation and handled it poorly. Sarai thought she had all the answers (vv. 1 2), Abram forgot to trust God (vv. 3–4), and Hagar fled from conflict (vv. 5–6). In verse 7, the scene changes to an intense encounter between Hagar and the Lord.

Many scholars believe that “the angel of the LORD” (v. 7) was Jesus Christ incarnate. His conversation with Hagar is filled with patience, grace, and truth. He tells Hagar to go back to Sarai and submit to her because her son will play a part in the coming of the Messiah (vv. 9–12). Hagar’s response reveals her mental and spiritual state. She gives Yahweh the name “the God who sees me” (v. 13). In contrast to the false gods of the ancient Near East that were simply statues, poles, or graven images, Yahweh saw and spoke. Yahweh had met with her in her distress.

God sees you too! Whatever mess you are in, God sees and listens to you. He knows where you are and what you need. There is no issue you are facing that is too complicated for Him, and He will help you if you let Him. Centuries later the apostle Paul would encourage those who were facing persecution in Rome with similar words, “We know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him” (Rom. 8:28).

>> You can never truly run from your problems. You have to face them. But it is best to face them with the Lord by your side because He sees you and hears you.

Pray with Us

When it comes to addressing conflict or persevering through complex difficulties, we want You by our side. But what does that look like? Sound like? Feel like? Grant us sensitivity to Your guidance and prompting.

BY Dr. Chris Rappazini

Dr. Chris Rappazini believes “the Bible is still relevant, leadership is essential, and the church’s best days are still ahead.” Chris is a graduate of Moody Bible Institute, Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary, the University of Edinburgh, and Gonzaga University. He served as Associate Professor of Pastoral Studies at Moody Bible Institute. Chris and his wife, Ashley, and their children now reside in North Carolina.