In 2 Peter 1:9 (ASV) we read, “For he that lacketh these things is blind, seeing only what is near, having forgotten the cleansing from his old sins.” The ESV translates the verse, “For whoever lacks these qualities is so nearsighted that he is blind, having forgotten that he was cleansed from his former sins.”
Being nearsighted or having the ability to only seeing things that are near is called “Myopia” from the Greek language which is the word that Peter uses here. In the context Peter is talking about Christians who fail to grow in the those graces that he talks about in vs.5-7. When we get wrapped up in the things of this world, and fail to see the future, such as growing in the Lord. Or fail to see the day of judgment coming, afterwards eternal life or eternal punishment, we are being nearsighted, not seeing afar off.
When we look at the pleasures of sin and do not look at the future consequences of wrong doing, we are being nearsighted. When Esau sold his birthright for a bowl of soup, he was only seeing one thing: satisfying his hunger, and not considering the importance of his birthright, Gen.25:33, Heb.12:16-17. It is important that we keep in mind the big picture of things and consider the importance of getting to heaven. It has been said many times, “If we miss heaven, we miss it all.” Thus knowing the seriousness of serving God and getting to heaven, we then we look afar off to the day of judgment and will so order our lives to take advantage of his grace and forgiveness in Christ Jesus.
Let us not be blind as the majority of the world are, who see only the dollar bills that are so close before their eyes. Heaven is waiting for all who look afar to see Jesus at the right of hand of God as mediator and redeemer, which things can only be seen through the eyes of faith. Do you see Jesus or do suffer from Myopia?
—Dan McKibben; via whatsaiththescriptures.com
