He Knows the Hearts

Bring to an end the violence of the wicked and make the righteous secure — you, the righteous God who probes minds and hearts.

Psalm 7:9 (NIV)

Some people are naturally naive. They choose to believe in the goodness of others and in their desire to act with integrity. They often fall victim to manipulation, for they are not always inclined to contemplate the darker side of human behavior. Others—even those who are not naive—nevertheless remain resolute in doing good and coming to the aid of their neighbors. They seek to make others as comfortable as possible, to meet their needs, and to help them find the ideal solution to their problems. They, too, eventually fall victim to the wicked.

No one truly knows the thoughts of man. No matter how pure a person may appear, you can never know what lies hidden in the depths of their thoughts—whether they are sincere or if they are truly the person they claim to be. It was precisely this question that Paul raised when he sought to speak to us about the Spirit of God. He asked: "For who among men knows the thoughts of a man except the spirit of the man which is in him?" It was in this spirit that David turned to God, asking Him to put an end to the wickedness of the ungodly. Drawing upon his own experience, he chose to turn to God, for he himself was unable to discern the true intentions of those around him.

It is quite possible that you are going through a similar situation: someone is manipulating you or causing you harm, and yet, you do not know how to break free from their grip. Like David, remember that your God is a just and righteous God; He knows the thoughts of men even before they take root in their minds; He searches the hearts and the thoughts. Therefore, turn to Him; entrust your worries and fears to His care. He will act in your favor. He will reveal to you the best course of action to take, and, in His own time, He Himself will deliver you from the wicked. Your enemy may have devised plans for your destruction, but as long as you place your trust in God, his schemes will ultimately be brought to naught.

May the grace and peace of God be with you.