The God Who Sees

"I have found you," he answered, "because you have sold yourself to do evil in the eyes of the LORD." 
1 Kings 21:20 (NIV)

Have you ever been confronted with a truth you were desperately trying to hide?

When the prophet Elijah confronts King Ahab after he murders a man and steals his property, the king's immediate response reveals his heart. Instead of remorse, Ahab thinks Elijah is the problem, "So you have found me, my enemy!" Like many of us when caught in wrongdoing, Ahab is more concerned with who revealed his sin than the sin itself.

When God decides to confront sin, nothing can prevent it. No palace walls, no royal guards, no years of hiding can keep God from bringing His justice to bear. There's a sobering truth here for each of us: justice should be feared. The Bible warns, "Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows." (Galatians 6:7)

But the good news is that when you allow God's Word to have its way, it yields humility and repentance. Notice Ahab's response to God's Word through Elijah, "he tore his clothes, put on sackcloth and went around meekly" (1 Kings 21:27). When God sees this, He responds to Ahab's humility and relents.

You can bring your sin and pain to a God who delights to forgive and heal. Perhaps you're on the receiving end of injustice. Someone harmed you, and it seems they've escaped all consequence. Hear this today: justice may be delayed, but it will never be denied.

Prayer: Lord, I know that nothing is hidden from Your sight. Search me and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting. Thank You that when I humble myself before You, You extend mercy even when justice is deserved. In Jesus' Name, Amen.