In the biblical narrative, God's recognition of good is a central theme that underscores His nature as a just and righteous deity. The Scriptures consistently affirm that God is aware of human actions and intentions, rewarding those who pursue righteousness and good deeds.

Divine Omniscience and Justice

God's omniscience is foundational to His recognition of good. Proverbs 15:3 states, "The eyes of the LORD are in every place, observing the evil and the good." This verse highlights God's all-seeing nature, ensuring that no act of goodness goes unnoticed. His justice is perfect, and He is portrayed as a fair judge who discerns the hearts and actions of individuals.

Reward for Righteousness

The Bible frequently emphasizes that God rewards those who do good. In Matthew 6:4 , Jesus teaches, "so that your giving may be in secret. And your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you." This passage illustrates the principle that God acknowledges and rewards acts of righteousness, even those done without public recognition.

Examples of Recognized Goodness

Throughout the Scriptures, there are numerous examples of individuals whose good deeds were recognized by God. In Genesis 6:8 , "But Noah found favor in the eyes of the LORD," indicating that Noah's righteousness amidst a corrupt generation was acknowledged by God, leading to his salvation from the flood.

Similarly, in the New Testament, Cornelius, a Roman centurion, is noted for his piety and good works. Acts 10:4 records an angelic visitation where Cornelius is told, "Your prayers and gifts to the poor have ascended as a memorial offering before God." This demonstrates that God recognized and valued Cornelius's devotion and charity.

God's Delight in Goodness

The Bible also reveals that God delights in goodness and righteousness. Psalm 147:11 declares, "The LORD is pleased with those who fear Him, who hope in His loving devotion." This verse suggests that God takes pleasure in those who live in reverence and trust in His steadfast love, further affirming His recognition of good.

Encouragement to Do Good

Believers are encouraged to pursue good works as a reflection of their faith and as a means of pleasing God. Galatians 6:9 exhorts, "Let us not grow weary in well-doing, for in due time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up." This encouragement serves as a reminder that perseverance in doing good is recognized and will ultimately be rewarded by God.

Conclusion

While the Bible does not explicitly state a conclusion on the topic, the consistent message is clear: God, in His omniscience and justice, recognizes and rewards good. His delight in righteousness and His promises of reward serve as powerful motivations for believers to live lives marked by goodness and faithfulness.