“Because I am righteous, I will see you. When I awake, I will see you face to face and be satisfied.” (Psalm 17:15)
I recently came across an insightful article stating that a baby’s sight is the last sense to develop. Yet, even before they can focus, newborns instinctively look toward faces. Studies reveal that infants begin reading faces at a remarkably young age; they can sense the warmth of a smile and respond in kind. When a mother frequently smiles and interacts with her newborn, that little one lights up with anticipation as soon as she enters the room, ready to connect.
Conversely, babies are also acutely aware of negative emotions. If a mother’s face shows displeasure or anger, the child’s smile quickly fades, eyes clouding with confusion. They are masters at picking up cues from those around them, especially their primary caregiver.
When infants miss out on these positive interactions during crucial developmental stages, it stunts their emotional growth. Older children who lack such nurturing often struggle to express feelings and connect with others. In some parts of the world, orphans left alone in cribs miss out on these vital exchanges, leading to profound emotional and physical delays. The research is clear: face-to-face interaction is essential for healthy development.
As adults, we continue this pattern. We instinctively gauge the emotions of those around us, interpreting their expressions to understand their feelings. A raised eyebrow or a subtle smile can guide how we communicate. We adapt our words and stories based on the reactions we observe, seeking approval and connection.
Perhaps this innate tendency to watch faces is a divine design to help us relate to God.
My heart says of You, “Seek His face!” Your face, Lord, I will seek. (Psalm 27:8)
David uniquely emphasized God’s face throughout Scripture. He’s the only person described as a man after God’s own heart. Could it be that David’s closeness to God stemmed from his practice of seeking God’s face? He learned to draw his cues not from the world around him but from the very presence of the Almighty.
If we, like a newborn, seek to look into God’s face, we allow His gaze to guide us. As we immerse ourselves in His presence, we begin to reflect His righteousness. Just as a child delights in the approval of loving parents, we find joy in knowing we bring pleasure to our Heavenly Father.
Yet, in our busy lives, it’s easy to lose sight of His face. We can become preoccupied with the opinions of friends, church members, and society at large, allowing distractions to pull us away from the One who longs for our gaze.
If we neglect to seek God’s face, we risk becoming spiritually stunted, much like those infants deprived of nurturing care. We won’t mirror God’s love and righteousness to the world. I don’t want that for myself; I want to reflect His glory and grace to those around me.
“In seeking the face of God with a desire for Jesus, we find our true reflection; His love transforms our hearts, guiding us to shine His righteousness into the world.”
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, I come before You with a heart yearning for connection. Help me to turn my eyes toward You and to gaze deeply into Your eyes. Like David, I long to seek Your face and live a life that brings You joy. May my heart be attuned to Your presence, and may I reflect Your righteousness in all I do. Show me Your smile, Lord, and fill me with Your love. Thank You for the gift of life and for being the ultimate Father who cares for me. In Jesus’ precious name, I pray, Amen.
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Rob Lavallee
Scriptural Seeds Ministries
Scriptural Seeds Ministries 