Psalm 119:18–Open My Eyes

Open my eyes, that I may see
Glimpses of truth thou hast for me;
Place in my hand the wonderful key
That shall unclasp and set me free.

The words of this hymn, written by Midwesterner, Clara H. Scott, have been sung by Christians for over 125 years.

Each stanza speaks to an increasing awareness and receptivity to God’s Word. Open eyes. Open ears. Open mouth. Open heart.

The metaphor of “open eyes” is common in the Bible. “Open my eyes, that I may behold wondrous things out of your law,” penned the Psalmist (Ps. 119:18).

Open eyes speak to one’s understanding being opened to God’s will and His Word. The apostle Paul prayed that “the eyes of your understanding be enlightened” (Eph. 1:18).

“Eyes that look are common; eyes that see are rare,” wrote J. Oswald Sanders in his book Spiritual Leadership. Sanders’ words address the ability to see below the surface. To look beyond the obvious. To view with insight and understanding. To really see things in this manner requires perception. Recognition. And discernment.

In that regard, we’re reminded of the two men on the road to Emmaus, who were saddened by Jesus’ death, and further perplexed about the news of an empty tomb. When Jesus joined them on the road, “their eyes were restrained so that they did not know him” (Lk.24:16).

However, after Jesus expounded to them the Scriptures “their eyes were opened and they knew Him” (Lk. 24:31).

They were so excited about their enlightenment that, although it was nearing sundown, they turned around and walked the 7 miles back to Jerusalem to share their good news with the disciples.

That’s what open eyes do when we really get a good look at Jesus.

Open eyes to God’s Word allows us to not only see wondrous things within it, but also to more clearly see Jesus and how His Word applies to our lives.

“Open your eyes,” Jesus says to each of us.

“Open your eyes” to opportunities to do good. To help others. And to share the word.

“Open your eyes” to those of a different racial and ethnic background. Prejudice will blind your eyes. The love of Jesus will open them.

“Open your eyes” to your friends, neighbors, and relatives. Maybe familiarity has closed your eyes to their needs. And to opportunities to minister to them.

“Open your eyes” to your co-workers, customers, and colleagues. Maybe interactions about material matters can lead to conversations regarding spiritual concerns.

“Open your eyes’ to the hurting. The helpless. “To the least of these.” See a starving soul beyond their physical plight.

“Open your eyes” to little things that mean a lot. A kind word. A smile. A hug. A pat on the pack. A text message. And even a “cup of cold water” in Jesus’ name.

“Open your eyes” to young people who are struggling to find their way. Who need a mentor. And have questions that need answers.

“Open your eyes” to senior citizens who are lonely and would appreciate a visit. A phone call. Or a card.

“Open your eyes” to use your unique gift to minister to others in need.

“Open your eyes” to slow down, and give of yourself and your time to someone who can be lifted by just a few minutes.

“Open your eyes” to use your monetary treasure to bless someone in need, less fortunate, or to fund a worthy cause.

“Open my eyes, O Lord, that I may do more than look, but really see.”

Open your eyes. Your ears. Your mind. Your heart.

Silently now I wait for thee
Ready, my God, thy will to see
Open my heart, illumine me,
Spirit divine!!

–Ken Weliever, The Preacherman