Sadly, many people lie awake at night, haunted by thoughts that other people don't like them, feeling they don't have a friend in the world. Amazingly though, on meeting these people in person, they are extremely likable. Why don't they think they're attractive to anyone else? Why do others see them as they do?

I found one clue in Jesus' encounter with the man born blind. (Mark 8:22-26). When the man's sight was only partially restored by Jesus, he could see people, but they were like objects to him - like "trees walking." Only when his eyes were completely healed could he see people as being fully human...like himself.

How often have you been hurt or even emotionally abused by someone treating you like an object;" a "means to an end" or someone who didn't deserve to be loved?

One reason may be that their eyes aren't open. Even if they are Christian and have been partially restored, they still see people as no more than "trees walking." Pray for them. But meanwhile know, "He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds - curing their pains and their sorrows...He will beautify the humble with salvation, and adorn the wretched with victory" (Psalms 147:3 and 149:4, AMPC).

Look up and see how much Jesus loves and takes pleasure in you. Then decide never again to be cast down by the opinions of unenlightened, partially-blinded men.

Heavenly Father, I hold up to You every hurt in my heart which has come from feeling unlovable or unloved. Restore the sight of all Your people, O God, and help us to see each other as You do...not as objects to be hurt or used, but as miraculous creations who all need each other to make it home to You. In Jesus' Name, Amen.