The eye is the lamp of the body. So, if your eye is healthy, your whole body will be full of light. Matthew 6:22 ESV

Your eye is the lamp of your body. When your eye is healthy, your whole body is full of light. Luke 11:34 ESV

In biblical times testimony wasn’t considered factual without there being two people with the same story, or two witnesses. When the gospels include these two accounts nearly word for word you can know Jesus was explaining a truth and know it is worth understanding.

I am a fan of Ted Dekker’s writing and his understanding of this scripture has been an eye opener. (See what I did there?) He points out the usage of eye versus eyes, conveying the idea that Jesus is not speaking of our physical eyes, but of our perception; how we see things.

I know that when I don’t perceive God’s presence, I become more anxious, worried, and even fearful about my life and my circumstances. My shoulders tense, my mood sinks, and I begin to feel exhausted and lose my motivation. When I perceive or see darkness the darkness feels greater and I am at its mercy.

Again Jesus spoke to them, saying, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” John 8:12 ESV

When I follow Jesus, by recognizing/seeing his light, my way is illuminated and my dark thoughts and the lies of the accuser are replaced with a sense of calm and peace. I walk with more joy and hope and I accept God’s love for me allowing me to accept myself.