“Turn my eyes from looking at worthless things; and give me life in your ways.” (Psalm 119:37 ESV).
The psalmist pleads with God to redirect his focus. He recognizes the danger of being drawn to “worthless things”—empty pursuits, fleeting pleasures, and distractions that dull our hearts and steal our attention. In contrast, he longs for life that comes from walking in God’s ways. The request is not merely for moral discipline but for spiritual renewal through divine help. This verse highlights a tension we all face: the pull of the world versus the path of life that God offers.
We are constantly surrounded by “worthless things”—entertainment that numbs our souls, achievements that do not last, and desires that pull us away from God. Left unchecked, our eyes and hearts drift toward what is temporary and hollow. But Jesus calls us to something far greater. In Him, we find life, purpose, and lasting joy.
Paul reminds us in Colossians 3:1–4 that since we have been raised with Christ, we are to seek the things above, where Christ is seated. Our lives are hidden with Him, and when He appears, we will appear with Him in glory. We are called to fix our eyes on Jesus and follow His ways, trusting that what He offers is far better than anything this world can give. Let us ask God to turn our eyes daily from what is worthless and set our gaze on Christ, who gives true and eternal life.
As a beloved hymn reminds us:
“Turn your eyes upon Jesus,
Look full in His wonderful face,
And the things of earth will grow strangely dim
In the light of His glory and grace.”
PRAYER: Dear Father, we confess that we are often distracted by things that are worthless in Your sight. Our eyes are easily drawn to what is temporary and hollow. Please turn our eyes away from these things. Fix our gaze on Jesus, who is our life. Teach us to desire Your ways and to walk in them with joy. Give us the wisdom to recognize what truly matters and the strength to follow Your path. May we seek the things that are above and live as those whose lives are hidden with Christ. In Jesus’ name, amen.