========================================================================
  TOTES OCULUS
  by Thomas Brooks
========================================================================

Summary: A sincere Christian labors to approve himself to God in all
places and times, seeking His approval above all else.

Topics: "God's Omniscience", "Sincerity in Faith"
Scripture References: Matthew 6:1

------------------------------------------------------------------------
DESCRIPTION
------------------------------------------------------------------------

Thomas Brooks emphasizes the distinction between hypocrites and sincere
Christians, using the nightingale as a metaphor for those who only
perform well when being observed. He argues that a true believer seeks
to please God at all times, regardless of whether anyone else is
watching. Just as the sun shines brightly even when unseen, a sincere
heart strives to do good for God's approval alone. The assurance of
God's acknowledgment is sufficient for the faithful, providing them with
joy and encouragement in their service. Ultimately, Brooks highlights
the importance of a heart focused on God rather than on human
recognition.

------------------------------------------------------------------------
CONTENT
------------------------------------------------------------------------

They say of the nightingale, that when she is solitary in

the woods, she is careless of her melody; but when she

perceives that she has any auditors, or is near houses--then

she composes herself more harmoniously and elegantly.

Truly, this is the frame and temper of the best of hypocrites.

Oh! but a sincere Christian labors in all places, and in all

times, to approve himself to God. He labors as much to

approve himself to God in a forest, where no eye sees him

--as he does when the eyes of thousands are fixed upon him.

The sun would shine bright, though all men were asleep at

high noon, and no eyes open to see the glory of his beams.

Just so, a sincere heart will shine, he will labor to do good;

though all the world should shut their eyes; yet he will eye

his work, and eye his God. He knows that God is totes

oculus--all eye, and therefore he cares not though others

have never an eye to observe him, to applaud him. Let God

but secretly whisper to him in the ear, and say, "Well done,

good and faithful servant!" and it is enough to his soul,

enough to satisfy him, enough to cheer him, and enough

to encourage him in the ways and the work of his God.

========================================================================
Source: https://sermonindex.net/speakers/thomas-brooks/totes-oculus/
========================================================================