The God Who Sees vs. Our Made-up Gods
Each of us has our relationship with God, an intimate and personal journey in knowing Him deeply. In the different seasons of life and in the fast-paced world where numbers and metrics often measure success, we unknowingly learn the gods we make dictated by our minds. Join us for another episode as Janina Vela shares how she explored her faith and her relationship with the God who loves us despite imperfections.
In a world characterized by a fast-paced existence where success is often measured by numbers and metrics, we sometimes unintentionally create our own gods—idols fashioned by societal pressures and personal expectations. Will explore the concept of "El Roi," the God who sees us, in contrast to the gods we inadvertently construct.
The Personal Odyssey of Faith
Our connection with the God is a deeply personal journey. It's an exploration of the heart and soul, a quest to understand and embrace the mysteries of the spiritual realm. This odyssey is unique for each individual, as it is influenced by one's experiences, beliefs, and the seasons of life.
The God Who Sees Us: "El Roi"
One of the names attributed to God is "El Roi," which translates to "the God who sees me" or "the God who sees us." This name finds its roots in the biblical narrative of Hagar, an Egyptian servant who faced adversity and vulnerability in the wilderness. In her darkest moments, Hagar encountered God and named Him "El Roi" as a testament to the profound truth that God sees us, loves us, and extends His compassion even in our lowest moments.
The Idols We Craft
In our quest for success and validation, we often unconsciously create our own gods—idols that revolve around external measures of achievement, popularity, or societal expectations. These idols divert our focus from the true source of spiritual fulfillment.
Things to consider:
1) Self-Reflection
Begin by introspecting and reflecting on your beliefs, values, and spiritual experiences. What is the essence of your faith, and how does it influence your life?
2) Prayer and Meditation
Dedicate time each day to communicate with God through prayer and meditation. These practices foster intimacy and connection with God.
3) Study and Learning
Engage in the study of sacred texts, spiritual literature, or teachings that resonate with you. Seek wisdom and understanding to enrich your faith journey.
4) Community and Fellowship
Join or engage with like-minded individuals who share your faith or spiritual path. Being part of a community can provide support, encouragement, and opportunities for growth.
5) Nature and Solitude
Spend time in nature and seek moments of solitude. These experiences can offer profound spiritual connections by allowing you to connect with God through the beauty and tranquility of the natural world.
Embracing Imperfections and Unconditional Love
The beauty of a relationship with the God who sees us lies in the acceptance of our imperfections. "El Roi" perceives us not as the world does, but as we truly are—imperfect, flawed, and vulnerable. This perspective invites us to embrace our imperfections and realize that our worth transcends external validations.
By engaging in self-reflection, prayer, meditation, and community, you can uncover the gods you may have unintentionally constructed and redirect your focus toward the source of true spiritual fulfillment. Celebrate your imperfections, release unrealistic expectations, and nurture a deeper connection with the God who sees you and loves you unconditionally. In doing so, you will embark on a transformative journey that transcends the fast-paced world of numbers and metrics, leading you toward a more authentic and spiritually fulfilling existence.
From Episode 159 of Adulting with Joyce Pring: “The God Who Sees vs. Our Made-up Gods ft. Janina Vela (Part 2)”