Search me…
Jeremiah 29:11 says: "I the LORD search the heart and examine the mind, to reward a man according to his conduct, according to what his deeds deserve."
I often reflect on this verse and wonder what I look like to others on the outside. Sometimes I come off to people as mean but I’m really a nice guy…. just tough and realistic! Sometimes I can seem insensitive when in reality I am very sensitive and have a huge heart for people. Even though I’m openly opinionated on various subjects, if you dig deep enough you’ll realize that it’s because of the effects the subject may have on people. On the other hand, I may seem like I’ve got it together in some areas when in reality I’m struggling to be what others may perceive. I’m real, I’m human, I’m flawed…. but I’m not satisfied with just accepting that without making the effort to be better.
This verse helps keep me in check as I go throughout my day. I can fool other people, but I can’t fool God. He knows everything about me. He knows what I think. He knows what I say under my breath. He knows my attitude even if it’s not reflected on the outside. He knows my sins. Praise Him for loving me anyways regardless of my inadequacies.
This verse also inspires me to want to do good even though sometimes it seems insignificant in a world full of darkness. I believe you’re accountable for what you do (both good and bad) and the whole reap what you sow deal is very literal. Call it bad karma or whatever but it still is a fairly sound principle. You don’t always see fruit from your good deeds (both internal and external) but many times it’s because it doesn’t come in the form in which we expect it.
Are you willing to say “search me oh God” and allow Him to form you into the man or woman He has called you to be?