The concept of focusing on the unseen is a recurring theme in the Bible, emphasizing the importance of faith, spiritual insight, and eternal perspective over the temporal and visible world. This theme encourages believers to trust in God's promises and the reality of the spiritual realm, which are not always visible to the human eye.

Biblical Foundation

The Apostle Paul addresses the idea of focusing on the unseen in 2 Corinthians 4:18: "So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal." . This verse highlights the transient nature of the physical world compared to the eternal nature of spiritual realities. Paul encourages believers to prioritize their spiritual lives and eternal destiny over temporary, worldly concerns.

Faith and the Unseen

Hebrews 11:1 defines faith as "the assurance of what we hope for and the certainty of what we do not see" . This chapter, often referred to as the "Faith Hall of Fame," provides numerous examples of individuals who lived by faith, focusing on God's promises despite not seeing them fulfilled in their lifetimes. These examples include Abel, Enoch, Noah, Abraham, and Moses, among others, who trusted in God's word and acted upon it, demonstrating their focus on the unseen.

Jesus' Teachings

Jesus Christ also taught about the importance of focusing on the unseen. In the Sermon on the Mount, He instructed His followers to "store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal" (Matthew 6:20). This teaching underscores the value of investing in eternal, spiritual treasures rather than earthly possessions.

Furthermore, Jesus emphasized the necessity of spiritual insight in John 20:29, where He said to Thomas, "Because you have seen Me, you have believed; blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed" . This blessing highlights the virtue of believing in the unseen realities of Christ's resurrection and divinity.

Spiritual Warfare

The Bible also speaks of the unseen spiritual battle that believers face. Ephesians 6:12 states, "For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this world's darkness, and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms" . This passage calls Christians to recognize the reality of spiritual warfare and to equip themselves with the armor of God, which includes faith, righteousness, and the word of God, to stand firm against these unseen forces.

Eternal Perspective

Focusing on the unseen is closely tied to maintaining an eternal perspective. Colossians 3:1-2 exhorts believers, "Since you have been raised with Christ, strive for the things above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things" . This directive encourages Christians to align their thoughts and actions with the eternal truths of God's kingdom, rather than being consumed by the temporary concerns of the world.

Conclusion

The biblical call to focus on the unseen challenges believers to live by faith, prioritize spiritual realities, and maintain an eternal perspective. By doing so, Christians are encouraged to trust in God's promises, engage in spiritual warfare, and invest in heavenly treasures, all while navigating the visible world with a heart set on the eternal.