Why Can’t We See God?

by Ester yusufu | 1 October 2019 08:46 am10

Many people ask why God doesn’t reveal Himself visibly like we see other people. Why don’t we hear His voice as clearly as human voices? Some find it easier to believe in God’s works than in God Himself, and others become skeptical, doubting God’s existence or even claiming “God is dead.”

Is God’s invisibility because of our unbelief? No. God remains God regardless of human perception (Psalm 115:3 ESV: “Our God is in the heavens; he does all that he pleases.”). The question is: Why does God choose to remain unseen?

God’s promise to reveal Himself: The Bible assures us that one day we will see God face to face. Jesus said, “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God” (Matthew 5:8). Paul taught, “For now we see in a mirror dimly, but then face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I have been fully known” (1 Corinthians 13:12). The book of Revelation describes a future reality:

“Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man. He will dwell with them, and they will be his people… and God himself will be with them as their God.” (Revelation 21:3)

Currently, God’s decision to remain unseen teaches us important spiritual truths.

God’s loving care and our growth: Imagine a parent who watches their child constantly—tracking what they eat, where they go, what they say, and even protecting them from harm. This love is protective but can restrict the child’s freedom.

Similarly, God loves us deeply (1 John 4:8 “God is love.”) and watches over us. Yet, He desires us to walk with Him freely, not out of compulsion or constant supervision.

Freedom in serving God: God’s Spirit brings freedom, not bondage. Paul says:

“Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.” (2 Corinthians 3:17)

If God were to constantly tell us every move to make, it would remove our freedom to choose and grow spiritually. God gives us the Bible, His Word, as a guide—a map for our journey of faith.

The Bible as our map: It shows us the way of life and warns against destruction:

“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” (Psalm 119:105)

We are responsible for choosing which path to follow—the path of life or death (Deuteronomy 30:19).

Walking in responsibility and initiative: A wise wife doesn’t wait for her husband to tell her every task; she understands her role and acts accordingly. Likewise, Christians are called to live out their faith actively, using the guidance of Scripture.

Jesus said:

“By this my Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit and so prove to be my disciples.” (John 15:8)

Living by faith, not by sight: Our walk with God is by faith (2 Corinthians 5:7: “For we walk by faith, not by sight.”). We do not always receive audible instructions or visions. Instead, we rely on God’s revealed Word and the leading of the Holy Spirit.

We live in the last days (Hebrews 1:2), awaiting Christ’s return. Let us continue to seek God earnestly, serve Him freely, and live by His Word.

May the Lord bless you richly!

Source URL: https://wingulamashahidi.org/en/2019/10/01/why-cant-we-see-god/

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