Jeremiah 17:9-10

I’ve been reflecting on how clarity comes, not primarily from looking inward, but from looking upward. I have also considered that AI seems to understand the importance of seeing things clearly, as it often expresses the need for clarity.

As I read these verses, my study of The Discipline of Grace came to mind. Jeremiah reminds me that the Lord sees my heart more clearly than I ever can. That realization shifts my focus. Instead of becoming preoccupied with analyzing myself, I find myself looking more intently at Him. Yet the more clearly I see Him, the more honestly I see my own sinfulness. The more clearly I see Him, the more deeply I appreciate the grace that surrounds me. The more clearly I see Him, the more I recognize that the new life He has given me stands in direct contrast to the devastation of my soul before I knew Him.

I often say that clarity comes from asking the right questions—a theme I explore in Ask Better Questions. The greatest Man who ever walked this earth, Jesus Christ, God wrapped in human flesh, asked many questions. Why? Not because He lacked answers, but because He wanted people to think, examine themselves in light of God’s Word, and see the truth.

Clarity begins with our worldview. When our worldview is shaped by Scripture and transformed through the new birth, the Holy Spirit checks our motives, convicts our hearts, and enables us to bear “fruits worthy of repentance” (Luke 3:8). True clarity is ultimately a gift of God’s grace.