Reflections on A Course in Miracles (ACIM) Lesson 42: God is My Strength. Vision is God's Gift.

Greetings Dear Ones,

In today's reflection, we will be exploring Lesson 42 from A Course in Miracles.

Today, we take a moment to step back from the noise of the world and rest in the quiet certainty of truth. This lesson is a gentle reminder that we are never alone, never without strength, and never without the vision to see truly. No matter what challenges we may face, we are supported by something far greater than our own limited perception. So let’s take this journey together and explore the depth of what it means to receive God's gift of vision.

Understanding the Core Teaching

A Course in Miracles Lesson 42 presents a profound shift in how we perceive our strength and vision. The lesson reminds us that our strength is not our own—we are not limited by the frailty of the ego or the body. Instead, we rely on God’s strength, which is limitless and ever-present. Vision, as ACIM defines it, is not about physical sight but spiritual perception—a way of seeing beyond appearances and illusions to recognize truth.

We are not asked to create vision or earn it through effort. It is already given, just as God’s strength is already ours. The only requirement is our willingness to step back from false seeing and accept the gift of true perception.

Applying This Lesson to Everyday Life

1. When You Feel Overwhelmed and Weak

Life often brings moments where we feel weak—physically, emotionally, or mentally. Maybe it’s a work deadline that feels impossible, a relationship conflict that drains you, or a health challenge that leaves you feeling powerless. In these moments, the ego tells us we must rely on our own strength, and when that strength feels insufficient, we spiral into frustration, doubt, or despair.

Lesson 42 invites us to remember: We do not rely on our own strength. The power that sustains us is not personal but divine. By stepping back from the belief that we must carry everything alone, we open the door to a higher strength working through us. In a moment of stress, we can pause and affirm:

“God is my strength. Vision is God's gift.”

This simple statement can shift our perception. Instead of seeing obstacles through the ego’s fearful lens, we allow divine vision to show us a different way.

2. When You’re Stuck in Judgment and Conflict

It’s easy to judge—ourselves, others, and situations. Imagine you’re dealing with a coworker who seems impossible to work with. They constantly criticize, never acknowledge your efforts, and seem determined to make your job harder. The ego reacts by defending, attacking, or withdrawing in resentment.

But what if this moment is actually an opportunity to practice true vision? What if, instead of seeing through the lens of the ego, we ask to see through the Holy Spirit’s vision?

Try this:

• Pause before reacting.

• Take a breath and affirm, “God is my strength. Vision is God's gift.”

• Ask, “What would Spirit have me see instead?”

You might not immediately feel a shift, but the willingness to see differently begins to dissolve the illusion. Maybe you realize the coworker’s behavior is rooted in their own insecurities. Maybe you see a lesson in patience, forgiveness, or non-attachment. The situation itself may not change, but your perception of it can transform.

3. When Fear Clouds Your Vision

Fear distorts everything. When we look at the world through fear, we see attack, loss, and separation. Perhaps you’re watching the news, and all you see is conflict. Maybe you’re struggling financially, and all you see is lack. In these moments, it’s easy to believe the world’s version of reality.

Lesson 42 reminds us: Vision is a gift already given. The world the ego shows us is not the real world—it is a projection of fear-based thoughts. But beyond this illusion, there is a world of peace, love, and wholeness that can be seen if we are willing.

When fear arises, practice saying:

• “I am not alone in this.”

• “I do not have to see through the ego’s eyes.”

• “God’s vision is already given. I choose to see with it.”

Even if the fear does not immediately dissolve, the decision to align with truth rather than illusion begins the process of awakening.

Final Reflection

Lesson 42 is a reminder that we do not have to rely on our own strength, nor do we have to struggle to see the truth. Strength is given. Vision is given. Our role is only to receive.

Today, in moments of weakness, in times of conflict, or whenever fear clouds your perception, take a moment to pause and affirm:

“God is my strength. Vision is God's gift.”

And in that pause, let true sight be given.