August 29

At once Jesus knew in His spirit that they were thinking this way within themselves. “Why are you thinking these things in your hearts?” He asked. — Mark 2:8 BSB

Jesus sees into people’s hearts and knows everything about them. He saw faith in the men who brought their friend to be healed. Then He saw into the man’s life, recognizing that his greatest need wasn’t healing, but forgiveness of sins.

Jesus also knew the secret thoughts of the scribes. They reasoned in their hearts, and Jesus knew their thoughts. He also saw in the publican the potential to be an apostle, even though others would have overlooked him.

Knowing that Jesus sees everything should both restrain and encourage us. We can’t hide anything from Him, so we should be careful in how we live.

But it should also inspire us, because He knows when we try, even when we fail. He knows when we’re sincere, even when we make mistakes. He knew Peter loved Him, even though Peter had denied Him.