How can we apply "what we are is plain to God" in daily life? Setting the Scene “Therefore, since we know what it means to fear the Lord, we try to persuade men. What we are is plain to God, and I hope it is plain to your conscience as well.” (2 Corinthians 5:11) Paul reminds the Corinthian believers that God already sees everything about them—their motives, character, and conduct. This truth frees and sobers us at the same time. Why God’s Complete Knowledge Matters • He sees the heart, not just the surface (1 Samuel 16:7). • Nothing escapes His sight (Hebrews 4:13; Proverbs 5:21). • His omniscience is coupled with covenant love (Psalm 139:1-4, 17). • Because Christ died and rose, we are accepted yet called to holiness (2 Corinthians 5:14-15). Daily Choices Shaped by “What We Are Is Plain to God” 1. Integrity in Hidden Spaces – Turn off the private-tab mentality; God is already in the room (Psalm 139:7-12). – Let the same character govern both public ministry and private browsing. – If temptation surfaces, recall Joseph’s words: “How could I sin against God?” (Genesis 39:9). 2. Authentic Relationships – Speak truthfully; half-truths are still uncovered before Him (Ephesians 4:25). – Refuse image-management on social media; aim for honest encouragement over self-promotion (Galatians 1:10). – When conflict arises, own your part quickly, knowing God already sees it (Matthew 5:23-24). 3. Work That Honors the Unseen Boss – “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart… it is the Lord Christ you are serving” (Colossians 3:23-24). – Excellence is not eye-service; the Lord measures faithfulness, not just results. – Budget time, expenses, and company resources as a steward under God’s gaze. 4. Quiet Generosity – Give in secret, trusting the Father “who sees in secret” (Matthew 6:3-4). – Celebrate God’s approval over human applause. – Use anonymity when possible to train the heart away from vainglory. 5. Confession and Accountability – Walk “in the light” with trusted believers (1 John 1:7). – Confess sins quickly (Proverbs 28:13; James 5:16). – Invite loving inspection: mentors or small-group partners who can ask hard questions. Mindset Shifts to Nurture • God-awareness over self-consciousness. • Audience-of-One thinking rather than performance for many. • Gratitude that He knows the worst and still redeems (Romans 5:8). • Eagerness for His commendation at the judgment seat of Christ (2 Corinthians 5:9-10). Practical Reminders to Keep Handy • Start the day with Psalm 139:23-24—“Search me, O God.” • Place a small note at work or home: “Seen by the Lord.” • End evenings with a brief heart audit: motive, purity, humility. • Memorize Hebrews 4:13; repeat it when no one else is around. Confidence for Tomorrow Because all is already plain to Him, we can: • Serve without fear of misunderstanding—He knows the truth (1 Thessalonians 2:4). • Rest when falsely accused—He vindicates (Psalm 37:5-6). • Persevere when unnoticed—He rewards (Matthew 6:18). Living each moment before the all-seeing, all-loving God turns ordinary routines into sacred worship and keeps our lives uncluttered by pretense. |
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