Vision Problems?
Categories: Bible Study LessonsHow is your “good eye”?
In Matthew 6:22 NIV the Lord said, “The eye is the lamp of the body. If your eyes are healthy, your whole body will be full of light.” Without understanding the Hebraic context in which Jesus is speaking…we are missing His teaching.
In case you are wondering whether or not you have a “good eye,” then read on and see for yourself.
Proverbs 22:9 NASB tells us, “He who is generous will be blessed, for he gives some of his food to the poor.” The actual Hebrew text says. “He who has a good eye is blessed because he gives bread to the poor.”
What about the evil eye?
Proverbs 28:22 NASB tells us, “A man with an evil eye hastens after wealth and does not know that want will come upon him.”
Jesus, who always upholds the Hebrew Scriptures, is reaffirming the necessity for generosity in life. We are not to be greedy or avaricious. We work, we receive, and we are blessed. We give to others.
We assume this is our money or material wealth. Not always. Money might be the easiest of God’s gifts to give. But perhaps it isn’t always the best for the person we are helping.
Ge
A Jewish medieval treatise (Orchot Tzaddikim) says, “There are three kinds of generosity; generosity of money; generosity of one’s body; and generosity of one’s wisdom” (also see article).
This fits into the Christian mindset as well. Generosity need not always be demonstrated with money. Sharing one’s ideas, talents, and knowledge; assembling with others in worship and work; taking time to be with a sick one; being a sympathetic listener….is showing our “good eye.” These are things money can’t buy.
So……“How’s your eyesight?”
If you aren’t sure, visit the Divine Ophthalmologist for a check-up.
May all of God’s people have 20/20 vision!
—Barbara Hyland, guest writer