But I know! I, the LORD, search all hearts and examine secret motives. I give all people their due rewards, according to what their actions deserve.”  (Jer 17:10)

Barnes writes, “A man’s heart is an inscrutable mystery. God alone can fathom it.”

How does God examines us?

Two ways:

1.  Our motives.

God searches every corner of our heart.  Our intents, purposes, imaginations, desires, plans. 

Nothing is hidden from His sight.

He sees our motives.

Ask yourself:  Why are you doing what you are doing?  Why did you say what you said?  Why do you see something in this manner?

Why are our motives so important?

Because they are the reason why we do what we do.  

2.  Our deeds.

God also tests our actions.

Are we doing what the Lord commands?

Are we praying, listening to Him through His Word, doing good to our neighbors, showing mercy, helping others, sharing Jesus?

It is not enough to say we love Him.  We show our love for Him by our behavior and deeds.

Our motives and deeds go together.  Our motives cause us to act.  Our deeds demonstrate our beliefs.

God sees both.

Make sure our motives and deeds are right before God.

Search me, O God, and know my heart! Try me and know my thoughts! And see if there be any grievous way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting!  (Ps 139:23-24)

(MT)