Grace Stands Open

“in the day when God will judge the secrets of men by Jesus Christ, according to my gospel.” – Romans 2:16

Paul makes a striking declaration—that God’s judgment will come not only upon outward actions, but also the hidden thoughts and motives of the heart, and that this judgment will be executed by Jesus Christ. This isn’t merely courtroom justice; this is heart-level discernment, where no secrets remain, and no masks survive. As David told Solomon, “the Lord searches all hearts and understands every intent of the thoughts” (1 Chronicles 28:9). Psalm 139 tells us that God knows our every move—even our unspoken thoughts. The idea that motive matters is not an escape hatch—it’s a holy spotlight.

And who better to hold that spotlight than Jesus Himself? John 5 reminds us that the Father entrusted all judgment to the Son—not just because He’s divine, but because He’s also human. Jesus walked among us, felt hunger, wept with sorrow, and was tempted just like we are. So when people say, “God doesn’t understand what I go through,” the cross stands as the answer. He knows. He understands. And He judges justly. In His earthly life and death, Jesus cleared God’s name—not as an aloof judge, but as a compassionate Savior. And now, if we place our faith in Him, He will clear ours as well.

That brings us back to this moment: Everyone, Jew or Gentile, will face judgment based on the light they received—written law or inner conscience. But before that day arrives, grace stands open. Jeremiah 31 speaks of a new covenant: God’s law written not on stone tablets but in our hearts. That new covenant was fulfilled in Christ. So today, instead of fearing judgment, you can step into redemption. Let His Word shape your motives, not just your behavior. Serve Him with a whole heart and willing mind—because He sees, He knows, and in Him, judgment turns into grace.