Proverbs 16:2 All the ways of a man are clean in his own eyes; but the LORD weighs the spirits. Weighing and pondering denote the nicest exactness we can express. Argue the text — I. FROM THE LIGHT OF NATURAL REASON. We cannot have any rational idea of a God unless we attribute to Him the perfection of infinite knowledge. His power cannot be almighty if none be allowed Him to descend into our minds, and inspect our thoughts and imaginations. God's immensity and omnipresence must admit Him into the hidden corners of our souls. The infinity of His justice and goodness will be brought into question, unless He be acknowledged to search the hearts of men. He must be able to judge the aggravations and extenuations of all that is evil. II. FROM THE LIGHT OF REVELATION. The tenor of all the laws of God through the Scriptures doth sufficiently confirm the truth of this doctrine, because no manner of obedience can be accepted with Him, but what must proceed from the integrity and sincerity of the heart, of which He alone can make the discovery. And there are likewise many express declarations of this high prerogative to rouse our consideration, and strike terror into our souls. The wisest heathen and philosophers have maintained that the prime and chiefest intimation and communication the Deity hath with men is with their hearts, and that the most acceptable service and devotion must therefore come from thence. (J. Cooke, M.A.) Parallel Verses KJV: All the ways of a man are clean in his own eyes; but the LORD weigheth the spirits.WEB: All the ways of a man are clean in his own eyes; but Yahweh weighs the motives. |
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