Jeremiah 17:10
The scripture for today is Jeremiah 17:10
Jeremiah 17:10 I, the LORD search the heart, I test the mind, even to give every man according to his ways, according to the fruit of his doings.
“God will judge ‘every man according to his ways…’ Not only will the judgment deal with a man’s deeds; it will also take into consideration the “fruit,” the influence, of man’s deeds upon others, both in life and in death.” The SDA Bible Commentary, Vol. 4, p. 423“For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, that each one may receive the things done in the body, according to what he has done, whether good or bad.” 2 Corinthians 5:10
“If ministers would make the actions of each day a subject of careful thought and deliberate review, with the object to become acquainted with their own habits of life, they would better know themselves. By a close scrutiny of their daily life under all circumstances they would know their own motives, the principles which actuate them. This daily review of our acts, to see whether conscience approves or condemns, is necessary for all who wish to arrive at the perfection of Christian character. Many acts which pass for good works, even deeds of benevolence, will, when closely investigated, be found to be prompted by wrong motives. Many receive applause for virtues which they do not possess. The Searcher of hearts inspects motives, and often the deeds which are highly applauded by men are recorded by Him as springing from selfish motives and base hypocrisy. Every act of our lives, whether excellent and praiseworthy or deserving of censure, is judged by the Searcher of hearts according to the motives which prompted it.” Ellen White, Testimonies for the Church, Vol. 2, p. 512
“So then each of us shall give account of himself to God.” Romans 14:12 “For the Son of Man will come in the glory of His Father with His angels, and then He will reward each according to his works.” Matthew 16:27
It is a good idea to take a daily inventory of our actions, thoughts, interactions, and words. If we judge others harshly but give ourselves leeway to stray from the path of love, and Christ-like behavior, we live as hypocrites. While we may be able to disguise our behaviors to the eyes of man, we are as transparent as glass to the eyes of God. One day we all will stand before Him, completely exposed, and we must, according to scripture, give an account of our deeds. It is best for each of us to surrender our hearts to Christ now, for He alone can cleanse us and, by His Holy Spirit, direct us along the path of righteousness and holiness. This is not righteousness as we see it but as His life has given it. May we stand before Him in that day cleansed by the blood of Christ, displaying a record of good works that are the fruit of obedience to His word.
God bless you as you continue in His service.
Tim