The concept of the LORD's knowledge of the righteous is a profound theme woven throughout the Scriptures, emphasizing God's intimate awareness and care for those who walk in His ways. This divine knowledge is not merely an awareness of actions but encompasses a deep, personal relationship with the righteous, characterized by guidance, protection, and blessing.

Divine Knowledge and Relationship

The LORD's knowledge of the righteous is first and foremost relational. In Psalm 1:6, it is written, "For the LORD guards the path of the righteous, but the way of the wicked will perish." This verse highlights the protective and guiding nature of God's knowledge. The Hebrew word translated as "guards" (yada) implies an intimate acquaintance, suggesting that God is actively involved in the lives of the righteous, steering them away from harm and towards His purposes.

God's Omniscience and the Righteous

God's omniscience is a central attribute that underscores His knowledge of the righteous. In Psalm 139:1-4, David declares, "O LORD, You have searched me and known me. You know when I sit and when I rise; You understand my thoughts from afar. You search out my path and my lying down; You are aware of all my ways. Even before a word is on my tongue, You know all about it, O LORD." This passage illustrates that God's knowledge is comprehensive, encompassing every aspect of the righteous person's life, from thoughts to actions.

The Righteous as God's Possession

The LORD's knowledge of the righteous also signifies ownership and belonging. In 2 Timothy 2:19, Paul writes, "Nevertheless, God’s firm foundation stands, bearing this seal: 'The Lord knows those who are His,' and, 'Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord must turn away from iniquity.'" Here, the knowledge of the LORD is linked to His recognition of the righteous as His own, a seal of divine approval and relationship.

Protection and Deliverance

The LORD's knowledge of the righteous often results in their protection and deliverance. Proverbs 10:29 states, "The way of the LORD is a refuge to the upright, but destruction awaits those who do evil." This proverb underscores the protective aspect of God's knowledge, where the righteous find safety and refuge in Him, contrasting with the fate of the wicked.

Blessings and Favor

The righteous are recipients of God's blessings and favor due to His knowledge of them. Psalm 5:12 declares, "For surely You, O LORD, bless the righteous; You surround them with the shield of Your favor." This verse highlights the favor that accompanies God's knowledge, where the righteous are enveloped in divine blessing and protection.

Guidance and Wisdom

The LORD's knowledge of the righteous also manifests in guidance and wisdom. Psalm 37:23-24 states, "The steps of a man are ordered by the LORD who takes delight in his journey. Though he falls, he will not be overwhelmed, for the LORD is holding his hand." This passage illustrates that God's intimate knowledge leads to the righteous being guided in their paths, with the assurance of divine support even in times of stumbling.

Eternal Perspective

Finally, the LORD's knowledge of the righteous extends into eternity. In Matthew 25:34, Jesus speaks of the final judgment, saying, "Then the King will say to those on His right, 'Come, you who are blessed by My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world.'" This eternal perspective underscores that God's knowledge of the righteous is not limited to temporal blessings but includes an everlasting inheritance.

In summary, the LORD's knowledge of the righteous is a multifaceted theme that encompasses relationship, protection, blessing, guidance, and eternal promise. It reflects God's intimate involvement in the lives of those who follow Him, assuring them of His constant presence and care.