Artwork No. 6 Great Expectations

Kimberly Nichole Art

Great Expectations, 2026

Acrylic on canvas | 14 × 18 in.

Inspired by Psalm 123:1-2

Artwork No. 6

“Unto You I lift up my eyes, O You who dwell in the heavens. Behold, as the eyes of servants look to the hand of their masters, As the eyes of a maid to the hand of her mistress, So our eyes look to the Lord our God, Until He has mercy on us.” Psalm 123:1-2 NKJV

David has encountered dangerous roads traveling to Jerusalem in his search for peace amongst war. Inside the city, the reality remains grim so David prays to God. His gaze turns from human contempt and helplessness to the Lord for mercy and deliverance. The upward look signals trust in God’s sovereign rule. Historically, servants watched their master’s hand for direction, remaining alert to needs and ready to respond to the slightest command. David uses this cultural reality to show absolute, submissive dependence. He fixes his eyes intently on the hand of God, waiting for a signal of His divine mercy and intervention. 

In this painting, the imagery of a servant's attentive gaze highlights our posture of humility and expectation before God. Waiting is active, expectant, and hopeful. It requires perseverance. Neither our status nor our strength removes the need to wait upon God and our hope should not be placed in human relief or changing circumstances. As we see in these verses, you are to lift eyes before lifting your voice. Trust precedes petition. Reflect on your life and examine when faced with challenges, if you look to God first as your ultimate source of help and guidance.