Why Are the Eyes Called the Windows to the Soul?
Matthew BellHave you ever heard the phrase, “the eyes are the windows to the soul”? This saying is grounded in the idea that our eyes reveal the inner workings of our hearts and spirits. From a Christian perspective, this phrase holds deep meaning, reflecting both biblical wisdom and the spiritual insights shared across generations. Here, we’ll explore why the eyes are often considered a direct gateway to the soul and how we can keep our eyes and hearts aligned with God’s will.
1. The Bible Teaches That the Eyes Reflect Our Hearts
Jesus teaches that what we see and focus on has a powerful impact on our souls. Our eyes often guide our thoughts and actions, reflecting the true state of our hearts. In Matthew 6:22-23, Jesus says:
“The eye is the lamp of the body. If your eyes are healthy, your whole body will be full of light. But if your eyes are unhealthy, your whole body will be full of darkness.”
In other words, what we allow our eyes to see and dwell on affects not only our minds but our entire being. When we focus on godly things, we allow light into our souls, filling us with hope, faith, and strength. However, when we focus on harmful or worldly things, we invite darkness, which can lead to discouragement, temptation, or even sin.
2. Our Eyes Reflect Our Intentions and Desires
In Psalm 119:37, the psalmist prays, “Turn my eyes away from worthless things; preserve my life according to your word.” This verse highlights the importance of guarding what we look at. Our eyes reflect our inner desires and reveal what we value most.
By training our eyes to focus on what is godly, beautiful, and true, we protect our hearts and deepen our walk with Christ. When we fix our gaze on things above (Colossians 3:2), our souls are nourished and filled with God’s peace and wisdom.
3. The Eyes Reveal Emotions and Spiritual State
Eyes are often the first place people look to understand someone’s emotions or spiritual state. Through a person’s eyes, we can often see joy, sadness, peace, or pain. The eyes reveal much about what’s happening in our souls, often more than words can convey.
Proverbs 15:13 tells us, “A happy heart makes the face cheerful, but heartache crushes the spirit.” This means that joy, sorrow, or pain held in our hearts is often visible in our expressions and eyes. As Christians, keeping our eyes on Jesus and finding our peace in Him helps radiate that same peace and joy to others.
4. Protecting Our Souls by Guarding Our Eyes
Because our eyes have such a significant impact on our souls, the Bible warns us to guard them carefully. Watching harmful or unwholesome things can lead us away from God’s peace and purpose, exposing us to negative influences.
“I will not set before my eyes anything that is worthless.” — Psalm 101:3
By choosing to turn our eyes away from anything that could corrupt our hearts, we’re making a choice to protect our spiritual health and live according to God’s will. By focusing on things that are “pure, lovely, admirable, and praiseworthy” (Philippians 4:8), we allow our hearts and minds to stay aligned with God’s truth.
5. Reflecting Christ Through Our Eyes
As believers, we are called to be reflections of Christ. When our hearts are filled with God’s love, mercy, and kindness, that love shines through our eyes. People can often see Christ’s light in us by looking into our eyes and witnessing our compassion, understanding, and peace.
“Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” — Matthew 5:16
When our eyes are focused on God and His purposes, we become lights in a dark world, revealing His love to those who don’t yet know Him.
Conclusion: Let Your Eyes Reflect Christ’s Light
The eyes truly are the windows to the soul, revealing the condition of our hearts and our relationship with God. By guarding our eyes, focusing on godly things, and reflecting Christ’s light, we protect our souls and help draw others closer to Him. As you go about your day, invite God to guide your vision, allowing His love and light to shine through your eyes and bless everyone around you.