Those We Hope to Reach through Ministry
Even a glimmer of light can break through blindness when the veil is lifted.
Devotional Credit: Day by Day by Grace by Bob Hoekstra
Photo Credit: Unsplash
This morning’s reflection by Bob Hoekstra centers on those to whom we minister — the perishing, the blind, and the unbelieving. Paul’s words in 2 Corinthians 4:3–4 are sobering: the glorious gospel of Christ is veiled to those who are perishing because their minds have been blinded by the god of this age. The veil isn't over the gospel, but over the perception of those trapped in darkness.
Those we seek to reach are not merely misguided — they are spiritually dead, disconnected from the life of God and headed toward eternal separation from Him unless rescued. As Ephesians reminds us, we too were once dead in our trespasses. The lostness of humanity is not passive; it is active wandering. Isaiah tells us that each one has turned to his own way. The lost have chosen paths of self-interest, unaware they are being deceived by the counterfeit lights of this world.
Yet there is hope. Jesus Himself is the Good Shepherd, seeking the one who is lost, rejoicing upon recovery. While Satan blinds minds, God has sent His Son to open eyes. Our ministry, then, is not to produce results, but to proclaim a message — a message of grace that carries life-giving power. We do not rely on persuasion but on the Spirit of God who opens eyes. Ours is the blessed privilege to proclaim Jesus, the remedy for condemnation and the doorway to everlasting life.
✍️ Personalized Journal Entry – Voice of the Holy Spirit
My child, I have placed My life within you, not for you to keep it hidden, but that it may shine through you into the lives of those still walking in shadow. You once were blind, but now you see — and I gave you sight so that you might carry My light to others.
You do not need to fear their unbelief, nor strive to convince with perfect arguments. The veil that covers their eyes is not yours to lift. I alone remove it. But I have chosen to use your life, your words, and your quiet trust in Me as vessels through which My invitation goes forth.
Speak the truth with grace. Love with My love. Be patient, for those who are blind cannot see quickly. Trust that My Spirit moves where you cannot. You are not responsible for the result — only for abiding in Me and allowing My compassion to flow through you. Do not let their rejection unsettle your peace. Remember, you too were once among the lost, but I found you.
Keep your heart soft and your eyes heavenward. Sow the seed of the gospel generously, even when the soil seems hard. I am the One who gives the increase, and no soul is beyond My reach.
Scriptures woven throughout: 2 Corinthians 4:3–4; Ephesians 2:1; Revelation 20:13–15; Isaiah 53:6; Luke 15:4; Luke 19:10; John 3:18; John 3:16
🪟 Real-Life Analogy
It’s like trying to describe the beauty of a sunset to someone wearing a blindfold. No matter how vivid your words, the listener remains unmoved — not because the sunset lacks splendor, but because they cannot see. You don't shout louder; you gently wait for the blindfold to be lifted. And when it is, they gasp — not at your description, but at the majesty they now see for themselves. The unveiling is God’s work, but He lets you be there when their eyes open.
🙏 Prayer of Confidence
Father, thank You for entrusting me with the message of life. I rejoice that the outcome doesn’t depend on me, but on You. You’ve already given me Your Spirit, Your Word, and Your love — all I need to walk into each opportunity with peace. I trust You to bring sight to the blind in Your perfect time. Until then, I will speak boldly, live compassionately, and rest in the knowledge that Your light will never be overcome by darkness.