1 Samuel 2:3 “Do not keep talking so proudly
    or let your mouth speak such arrogance,
for the Lord is a God who knows,
    and by him deeds are weighed.”

The verse ahead of this is dearly loved and set to music, but this verse also has real punch. This is a direct response by Hannah to Penninah, her rival wife who had tormented her for her infertility. That said, it’s still true! Our words should be circumspect before the Lord. The English and Japanese translations differ in the last line, and I chose to write largely because of that very line. The Japanese says, “His actions are beyond measure,” speaking of the Lord, while the NIV and ESV, at any rate, say “by Him actions/deeds are weighed,” speaking of what we do. Both are true, and are expressed in other places in the Bible. Since God is infinite, it goes without saying that we can’t measure His actions. Scientists plunge into the chase of trying to find them out, but new telescopes and the like are continuing to come up with data that completely amazes them. It’s not wrong to investigate, by any means, but we need to have the humility to know that we’ll never know everything. The English translation of the line is in perfect agreement with James, who wrote extensively about the difference between words and deeds. For that matter, Jesus had a lot to say about the hypocrisy of the Pharisees. It all comes down to humility and integrity. The Japanese term for integrity is literally, “word-action agreement.” Our words need to be humble, and our actions need to back them up.

As I write frequently, I have really struggled with pride, and that has been expressed in both words and actions. You might say I had integrity in my pride! However, that is certainly cause for repentance. I must live every moment in the awareness that I can do everything the Lord calls on me to do, (Philippians 4:13) but I can do nothing without Him. (John 15:5) When that awareness is complete, it gives full assurance and perfect peace. I certainly want that! As much as I tell other people to get their eyes off of themselves and focus on Jesus, I still don’t do it perfectly myself. Even at 76, I’ve got plenty of room to grow! He has told me to rest, relax, and rejoice in Him, and I will be in a practicum in doing that until He takes me home to be with Him forever.

Father, thank You for this reminder. It’s not like You haven’t said this to me before! Help me indeed take it in and act on it, reflecting the character of my Lord Jesus more and more accurately, drawing people to Him for their salvation and Your glory. Thank You. Praise God!