The Lord Sees Deep into Hearts and Minds

February 2025

Since we added a fourth high-mile vehicle to our family fleet, I have enjoyed doing the maintenance and repairs. When working on our cars, one tool I use more than any other is a flashlight. It helps me to see the situation and repair what needs to be fixed. Like a flashlight, the Lord sees beyond the surface, deep into people's hearts and minds. Proverbs says, “The spirit of a person is the lamp of the Lord, Searching all the innermost parts of his being” (Proverbs 20:27). The Lord sees directly into a person’s spirit. Although we can’t see what He sees, He uses us to minister to others.

"The spirit of a person is the lamp of the Lord, Searching all the innermost parts of his being” (Proverbs 20:27)

We see the outer shell of a person. We see their smile, hear them laugh, and assume they are fine. We ask surface questions like, “How’s it going?” To which they reply, “Good” or “Fine.” Most people understand that’s just small talk. If we intend to go deeper, we must ask and listen closely to discover what is happening inside. If prompted by the Spirit, I will look at them and ask, “How are you doing?” Or “How are you really doing?” This communicates that I care and sense something is on their mind.

Sometimes, all a person needs is for us to listen to them. We don’t need to give advice or try to fix their problem. Just caring enough to listen and being present is all they may need. Other times, they may confide in us and look for guidance. They have free will, and it is up to them to respond to what the Lord brings to their attention. If they regularly study scripture, a good question is, “What do you sense the Lord is telling you to do?” Or “What do you believe is the answer?” They may ask our opinion on a matter. If asked, feel free to share a Biblically based answer. Just not too much. Let them work it out. A wise man once said, “If someone isn’t asking the question, they are not listening for the answer.”

Recently, I had an opportunity to answer several questions about spiritual matters with a young man. He said he didn’t think he deserved to get into heaven and asked what I thought. It was a joy to listen to his concerns and explain how none of us deserve or can earn our way into heaven. Although he understood what I was saying, I could tell that his work-based thinking was a huge obstacle for him. I encouraged him to read the Gospel of John and the Book of Romans. Pray the Lord will illuminate his need for God’s grace and mercy and further discuss this with other believers in a church fellowship. Join me in praying that he will hear the Lord's voice and respond to the gospel as he studies the Bible. This ministry is possible because of the generous gift of ministry partners like you. Thank you!

In Christ,

Derrick Poston

Chaplain, GCPD

President, Great Adventure Missions

678-665-8164

North American Mission Board