What does "the LORD is a God who knows" reveal about God's character? Setting the Scene 1 Samuel 2:3: “Do not boast so proudly, or let arrogance come from your mouth, for the LORD is a God who knows, and by Him deeds are weighed.” God’s Complete Knowledge • The Hebrew idea behind “knows” (yadaʿ) reaches beyond bare awareness into exhaustive, intimate understanding. • He knows everything—past, present, future—because He stands outside time (Isaiah 46:9-10). • Nothing is hidden from His sight—thoughts, intentions, motives, every secret (Hebrews 4:13). Personal and Relational Omniscience • God’s knowledge is not cold data collection; it is relational. He knows His people personally (Jeremiah 1:5; John 10:14). • His knowledge includes empathy and covenant loyalty (Exodus 2:24-25). God Knows Deeds and Weighs Motives • “By Him deeds are weighed” shows moral evaluation, not mere observation. • He assesses motives (Proverbs 16:2), attitudes (1 Chronicles 28:9), and secret desires (Psalm 139:1-4). • Justice rests on perfect knowledge; He can judge impartially (Romans 2:2). Practical Implications for Us • Humility: no room for pride or pretense—He already sees everything. • Integrity: live transparently; hidden sin is never truly hidden (Luke 12:2-3). • Comfort: the same God who knows our failures also knows our struggles and needs (Matthew 6:32). • Accountability: every action matters because He weighs it (2 Corinthians 5:10). • Wisdom: seek His guidance—He alone has perfect insight (James 1:5). Supporting Scriptural Witness • Psalm 147:5—“Great is our Lord and mighty in power; His understanding has no limit.” • Job 37:16—He “is perfect in knowledge.” • Isaiah 40:28—“His understanding is unsearchable.” • John 2:24-25—Jesus “knew what was in a man.” • 1 John 3:20—“God is greater than our hearts, and He knows all things.” Summary “The LORD is a God who knows” unveils His omniscience—total, relational, moral, and just. Because He perfectly understands every detail and motive, He alone can rightly judge, wisely lead, and tenderly care for His people. |