A God With Eyes by Martin Wiles

With flashlights in hand, they entered the gym. “Ready or not here we come.”

Hide n seek is an old game, but we gave it a twist. The kids called it “Hide n Seek in the Dark.” While two adult seekers waited outside, several other adults helped the hiders hide. We put them on top of refrigerators, stuffed them in garbage cans and packed them in cabinets. Anywhere the searchlight might miss. After a few minutes, the seekers announced, “Ready or not here we come.” Those who kept quiet usually won the game. After all, that’s the goal.

Hagar wasn’t interested in hiding. She gave this name to the LORD who spoke to her: “You are the God who sees me.” (Genesis 16:13). Abraham’s wife was childless, so she adopted a period custom and gave her servant Hagar to Abraham to bear one for her. Hagar mistakenly rubbed her good fortune in Sarah’s face, Sarah retaliated, and Hagar ran away. God found her, told her to go home and promised her many descendents. Hagar realized God sees our misery and named the place “the God who sees me.”
Hagar probably begged for God’s intervention. She wasn’t interested in hiding. I like her method. When I’m in pain or when life throws me a fast ball, I’m not interested in hiding. I want God to see me and act.

The Bible promises God is near when we’re in pain. The LORD is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit (Psalm 34:18). Crying out shows dependence and acknowledges our belief he has plans and knows what’s necessary for them to materialize. Our part is letting him see us. Don’t try to handle life’s pain. Let God see you.

Prayer: God, enable us to allow You into our pain and plans.

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