Of all the terms of endearment found throughout the pages of Scripture, I don’t think there’s any more beautiful than God calling us the “apple of His eye.” Though you may have heard this phrase before, to glean its full impact, it’s important to understand what it means in a literal sense. You see, the “apple” refers to the part of the human eyeball in which, if you look closely, you can see yourself reflected. In spiritual terms, it denotes that the Lord is looking at us so intently and with so much love and compassion that we are almost dancing in His eyes. As we move closer to Him, we see an image of ourselves mirrored there, but it’s only a tiny one. In other words, part of what it means to be the object of His affection is to understand that His greatness makes us small (and to be okay with that). Though we are not at all insignificant, our sufficiency comes from His strength, and He exalts us when we humble ourselves before Him. Another important function of the human eye is protection, and this is the second aspect of the Lord’s care as reflected in the phrase “apple of His eye.” Since our eyes are the most vulnerable and fragile part of our bodies, it’s a blessing that they can be shut when subject to harm. Likewise, being the “apple of God’s eye” means that He will protect us when we come under attack. Though tests and trials will inevitably assail, we will not be alone as we endure them. Our loving Savior never leaves our side, and He covers us with His favor while He fights for us and ultimately brings us to victory.

My friend, you are in the middle of the Lord’s field of vision and He loves you more than you can imagine! As He gazes on you, you bring Him joy and fill His heart with affection. The One who made Heaven and earth is wild about you, and He delights in sharing every moment of your life as He provides for, comforts, and takes care of you, just like a loving and compassionate Father. Jesus is with you and for you, and there is nothing from here to eternity that can alter the deep tenderness He feels as you dance freely in His eyes and fill them with happiness.