On His Blindness

Poetry | John Milton
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According to Milton, Who Serves God Best?

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According to Milton, who serves God best?

“On His Blindness,” also known as “Sonnet 19” or "When I Consider How My Light is Spent," is a sonnet by the English poet John Milton (1608-1674). Milton wrote this poem in the mid-1650s after losing his eyesight. The poem reflects on the physical and spiritual challenges the speaker faces as a blind person.

Who Serves God Best

As a blind person, the poet feels unable to complete the tasks that God has set for him. He worries that God might be displeased with him for not doing more. In the second half of the poem, the speaker reassures himself by arguing that God does not need human help; there are many ways to serve God.

Patience and Faith: Milton introduces the concept of "patience" that guides him to a deeper understanding. He realizes that God does not need human help or accomplishments. Instead, God values those who are obedient and have faith.

Serving God does not always mean performing great deeds. Sometimes, serving God simply means waiting patiently and trusting in God’s plan. The poet says,

“God doth not need

Either man’s work or his own gifts; who best

Bear his mild yoke, they serve him best.”

True Service to God: Milton describes God as a powerful king who has many servants ready to carry out his commands. Some may be called to travel far and work hard for God. Some may just stand still and wait for God’s command. Milton ends the poem with the following line:

“They also serve who only stand and wait.”

To conclude, Milton realizes that true service to God comes from faith and patience, not from outward actions. Through “On His Blindness,” Milton expresses that obeying God with a humble heart is the best way to serve him.

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