Many Christians know the chorus Turn Your Eyes Upon Jesus, but they may not know its writer and inspiration. Composer Helen H. Lemmel (1863-1961), as director of a woman’s choral group, wrote the song for the Billy Sunday evangelical meetings in the early 1900s. She was inspired by the words written by author and artist Lilias Trotter. Trotter (1853-1928) turned away from her art, fame and fortune to serve the Muslims of Algeria for 38 years. Certainly, Trotter understood what it meant to look to God and away from her fears.

For you did not receive the spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you have received the Spirit of adoption as sons, by whom we cry, “Abba! Father.”

Romans 8:15

In the Bible, Paul traveled through regions that are still in the news today for antagonism toward Christianity. Though his life was threatened moment by moment, his eyes weren’t focused on the physical, but on the spiritual: “For to me to live is Christ, and to die is gain.” (Philippians 1:21)

What are you focused on? Set your sights on God, and then think about what you can do in this world that will effect eternity. Begin with prayer for all people, particularly the leaders and citizens of the United States, to yield to Christ’s lordship.

Recommended Reading: Romans 8:26-39