The Power of Observation
“For at the window of my house I have looked out through my lattice…”
Proverbs 7:6
From the time we are young, we learn by observation, watching and imitating older siblings, parents, and friends as we grow. Even when we are older, we continue watching people and observing situations to help us make sense of the world. This applies in our earthly lives and in our spiritual lives.
But far too often we just don’t pay attention to what is happening around us. We may be really busy and miss the signs of what’s going on with a troubled friend, or we may have preconceived notions in our mind about a situation and end up seeing what we want to see, instead of what is really happening.
In Proverbs 7, Solomon wrote about what he noticed when looking out of the window. But like many of his sayings, there are layers of meaning to be discovered. Solomon notes that he is looking out of a window, which is not like an ordinary window, but in Hebrew refers to a lattice. He can see outside and is looking out on the activities of people, but because of the lattice work and external decoration, it would be more difficult for the people outside to see him.
The first layer shows us a useful way to acquire knowledge: by observation. As noted earlier, we learn by observation about many things are we grow. But how many things pass by in life that we completely ignore? It is actually useful to spend time observing and thinking about the things you see and the things that pass through your life. A closer, prayerful examination will yield understanding on seemingly insignificant matters.
The second layer points to a deeper truth, which is that there is another observer, heavenly, hidden from view, who is far greater than Solomon. The Most High God, whose eyes observe every action of humanity, whether good or evil (Pr. 15:3). Solomon observed the external behavior of those he saw and wisely evaluated their actions. But his actions point to the Lord’s searching eyesight that can see and judge the human heart. The Lord evaluates not only our external actions, but our inner motives, and unfulfilled desires (Ecc. 12:14).
Take time to observe and reflect on the things you see; you can gain wisdom from this practice. Keep in mind that as you live, you are also being observed by the Lord from heaven; He is a careful evaluator and righteous judge.