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God Knows
Revelation 3:15
"I know thy works, that thou art neither cold nor hot: I would thou wert cold or hot."
Seven times in the first two chapters of Revelation God says the words, "I know." Though each time God said it was not always good for the church, it can be encouraging to know that God knows. God says in these chapters that He knows our works, our labor, our patience, our stand, our endurance, our tribulation, our poverty, our surroundings, our love, our service to Him, our faith, our heart's condition, our strength and our walk with Him. This is quite a list and God knows all of these things. When you read this list, several things should come to your attention.
First, you can't hide from God. Too many times Christians treat God as if He were a human who only knows what can be seen. You must realize that God knows the heart. What you may be able to hide from others you cannot hide from Him. You can't hide your sin from God. Yes, you may be able to hide your sin from your spouse, parents or pastor, but God knows when you sin the very first time you do it. He also knows your heart. You can't hide a cold heart from God. You may be able to put on a good show for those who watch you, but God knows if your heart is on fire for Him. Always remember that you can't hide anything from God. That is why you must be up front with God regarding your sin. He already knows, so be honest with Him and you will find that He will be more longsuffering with you.
Second, God knows every detail of your life. It encourages me that there is nothing in my life that God doesn't notice. The little things you do in life are noticed by God. Man may not see the things you do in private for God and others, but God sees every little detail and will reward you accordingly. He also knows your fears and worries about tomorrow. He knows your concerns with what the future holds. Though we should never worry or be concerned about our future, it is encouraging that God does know these little details about you, and He will help you through them if you will let Him. Tell God in prayer about the details of your life. Be honest with God, for He already knows these details. Likewise, don't think that your private works go unnoticed. God sees them and will reward you.
Third, God knows what we go through for Him. Nobody quite knows every heartache that you face. However, let me encourage you that God knows. To some this may not be comforting, but you must understand that God knows what you go through for Him. He sees your stand on the job and what you go through for your Christian testimony. He sees your stand in the public schools and the ridicule you receive for that stand. He sees your stand in the public square and the persecution you receive. He sees your stand among compromising Christians. God knows what you go through for Him. Don't give up! God is there to help you, and He will reward you if you will just hang in there.
Seven times in two chapters God reminds us that He knows. Christian, if you will daily remind yourself that God knows and sees all things, you will find that this knowledge will help you to live a cleaner life and will encourage you to keep going when you feel like giving up. Every day, before you leave your house, simply remind yourself that He knows.