What Old Testament examples show God knowing the hearts of individuals? Acts 1:24 and the Old Testament Thread “Lord, You know everyone’s heart. Show us which of these two You have chosen.” (Acts 1:24) The apostles pray with confidence because Scripture has long shown that the Lord already knows every heart. Earliest Pages—Genesis to Deuteronomy • Genesis 6:5 — “The LORD saw that the wickedness of man was great upon the earth, and that every inclination of the thoughts of his heart was altogether evil all the time.” • Genesis 20:6 — God tells Abimelech in a dream, “I know that you have done this with a clear conscience.” • Deuteronomy 8:2 — The wilderness years “humbled you and tested you to know what was in your heart, whether or not you would keep His commandments.” Historical Books—Living Examples • 1 Samuel 16:7 — “The LORD does not see as man sees; for man sees the outward appearance, but the LORD sees the heart.” • 1 Kings 8:39 — Solomon prays, “Render to each man according to all he has done, since You know his heart—for You alone know the hearts of all men.” • 1 Chronicles 28:9 — “The LORD searches every heart and understands the intention of every thought.” • 2 Chronicles 16:9 — “The eyes of the LORD roam to and fro over all the earth to show Himself strong on behalf of those whose hearts are fully devoted to Him.” Wisdom Literature—Poetic Affirmations • Psalm 44:21 — “He knows the secrets of the heart.” • Psalm 139:1-2 — “O LORD, You have searched me and known me… You understand my thoughts from afar.” • Proverbs 15:11 — “Sheol and Abaddon lie open before the LORD—how much more the hearts of men!” Prophetic Voices—Heart-Searching Oracles • Jeremiah 17:10 — “I, the LORD, search the heart; I examine the mind to reward each man according to his way.” • Ezekiel 11:5 — “Thus says the LORD: That is what you are thinking, O house of Israel; I know the things that come into your mind.” Key Truths Tied Together • From Genesis to the Prophets, God repeatedly demonstrates that He sees motives, intentions, and hidden thoughts. • Acts 1:24 naturally rests on this foundation: the disciples ask God to reveal a choice He already knows because His perfect knowledge of the heart has never changed. |
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