Eyes, Ears and Face

“‘For the eyes of the LORD are on the righteous,

And His ears are open to their prayers;

But the face of the LORD is against those who do evil.’” (I Peter 3:12, NKJV)

This verse is pulled from a longer quotation of Psalm 34:12-16. (Side note: Peter and the other writers of the epistles and gospels generally would cite only Old Testament writings or Jesus’s words, whereas Paul would sometimes include secular philosophers in his teachings. Interestingly, in this case, Peter cuts off the last line of verse 16, which says, “To cut off the remembrance of them from the earth.”)

Peter’s pointng to this passage from the Psalms was in support of what he was teaching about interactions with others, especially among those of faith. In chapter 2, Peter had pointed out that our testimony before the world is critical (2:11-12), and that as we submit to God, we should be submissive to others; all of us to the law of the land (2:13-17), slaves to their masters (2:18-25) and wives to their husbands (3:1-6). He then reminds husbands to honor their wives (3:7), following that up with another instruction to all.

“Finally, all of you be of one mind, having compassion for one another; love as brothers, be tenderhearted, be courteous; not returning evil for evil or reviling for reviling, but on the contrary blessing, knowing that you were called to this, that you may inherit a blessing.” (3:8-9) In all we do, in every circumstance, this mindset should be toward all. Paul gave similar detailed instructions in his writings, even pointing out in Galatians, “Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all, especially to those who are of the household of faith.” (Galatians 6:10 NKJV)

Child of God, be encouraged. He is watching; He is listening; He is working for our good. Righteous behavior will flow from you as you walk in faith; unrighteous behavior will result in being opposed by God, even to the point of being cut off. Rest in His love and do good to all men.