She gave this name to the Lord who spoke to her: “You are the God who sees me,” for she said, “I have now seen the One who sees me.” Genesis 16:13 (NIV)
I had a conversation not too long ago regarding being seen and noticed in this polarized world we live in today. There are many people who go about their day who may not be in a committed relationship, do not live with family, and their friends are few or, there’s none at all. At this stage in their lives, they are alone. And we discussed that what all people really want is to be seen and for their existence to be acknowledged. When looking around, we see it’s not just family, friends, church members, co-workers, etc. It’s also the store cashier, a food service worker, or anyone who works in the service industry. They all want to be acknowledged, to be appreciated, to be seen by others.
When seeking to give acknowledgments, it doesn’t have to be over the top or a grand gesture. It can be done just by simply saying hello with a smile. A simple “Hello how are you”, “Thank you for your help or service”, “Have a nice day”, “Make it a great day”, “God’s Blessings to you and your family”, etc. These are just a few positive, uplifting phrases that one can say to another, that lets them know they are acknowledged, they matter, and they are seen. For all we know, it could be the only positive/uplifting messages they have received all day.
In the verse above, Hagar acknowledges God sees her during her time of need. We all must remember that God acknowledges us, He sees us, He loves us. If we perhaps do not get positive acknowledgments from one day to the next, we can rest assured that God loves and cares for us. He formed us in our mother’s womb (see Psalms 139:13-15). He knows every single hair on our head which He numbered (see Luke 12:7). Have you ever stopped to think about those facts?
So, when things are not going well in our lives and the lives of our loved ones, we can rest in the knowledge that God not only sees us and the situation but, He is also working out a plan. We can trust and believe He will be with us no matter what. All of us will have times, and seasons of life when we may find ourselves alone. During those times, instead of waiting for others to reach out to us, let us seek to reach out to them and show kindness and love. If possible, may we let them know we worship and praise the God who sees us.
Blessings,
Angélique
To contact: Angelique@21stcenturygodlyliving.com