“Every way of man is right in his own eyes, but the Lord pondereth the hearts.”
(Proverbs 21:2 KJV).  

Have you ever heard someone say:  “The Lord knows my heart!” I have heard that statement numerous times over the years.  It  is usually made by those who seek to justify their non Christian actions or lifestyle in comparison to others.  But in reality that statement is true!  The Lord does know our hearts.   The Lord  knows not only our actions, but  He also knows our inward motivation.  He knows what our real intentions are.  He knows what really drives us in our actions and decisions.  

When the Holy One looks upon us, He knows every motive of our heart.  Although our outward actions may appear to be good, the Lord knows what is really motivating us.
(1 Samuel 16:7).    Are we seeking to promote ourselves?  Are we seeking to justify ourselves?  Are we seeking the praise and the approval of others?  Or are we seeking to genuinely honor and please the Lord?  The Lord knows the difference.

While all of us desire the  approval of others (spouse, co-workers, neighbors and friends) we must realize that there are times when, in spite of our best efforts we are misunderstood and our actions are mischaracterized.  We may experience rejection because of that.  That rejection can be devastating.  It can be difficult to bear.  

But if the motive of our heart is pure, if there was no selfish motive or ambition, then the Holy One will become our defender (Math. 18:6-7).  He will help us to overcome the feelings of rejection and move forward with peace and joy.  If our motive is not pure, then we are left to handle it on our own until we are ready to surrender all of it to the Lord and allow Him to cleanse us and renew  us by His Blood (1 John 1:9-10).  

Ultimately is is the Lord’s approval that we desire above all else.  If we have His approval, then we will not covet the approval of others,  We we will be free  to be our selves.   And that is a very liberating place to be!  

James W. Black