Definition: For the eyes of the LORD run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to shew himself strong in the behalf of [them] whose heart [is] perfect toward him. Herein thou hast done foolishly: therefore from henceforth thou shalt have wars.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse together. It’s a really important and somewhat complex passage from the Bible, and it speaks to a significant shift in focus for God after the fall of man. Here's what it means, explained in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse describes God’s active and relentless pursuit of people who are truly loving Him. It’s not just about being nice; it’s about a deep, unwavering devotion. Let’s unpack the parts: “For the eyes of the LORD run to and fro throughout the whole earth…” : This is like God looking everywhere . He's constantly watching and searching for people who are truly committed to Him. Think of it as a tireless, global scan. “…to shew himself strong in the behalf of [them] whose heart [is] perfect toward him.” : This is where it gets interesting. “Showing Himself” means God demonstrating His power and goodness to those who love Him. "Whose heart is perfect toward him" – this is a key phrase. A "perfect heart" means someone who loves God completely, without any doubt or hesitation. “Herein thou hast done foolishly: therefore from henceforth thou shalt have wars.” : This is the crucial part. God is calling out to those with perfect hearts. He's setting a boundary. From now on, because of this deep love, there will be conflict and war. It’s not just about occasional disagreements; it signifies a widespread struggle driven by a lack of true devotion. In simpler terms, the verse is saying: “God isn’t content with just nice people. He wants to see His presence and power shown to those who truly love Him.” And because of that, there will be conflict and war – not out of malice, but because of a lack of genuine devotion. What's the message behind it? This verse is often interpreted as a warning about the dangers of pride and self-centeredness. It highlights that true faith isn’t just about intellectual understanding; it’s about a deep, heartfelt love for God that leads to righteous action. It’s a call to repentance – to change our hearts and focus on loving God above all else. Important Note: This is a complex passage with many layers of meaning. It's often interpreted in the context of the Old Testament, particularly concerning the Babylonian exile and the subsequent rebuilding of the Temple in Jerusalem. It speaks to the importance of returning to God’s covenant after a period of separation. --- Do you want me to: Explain any part in more detail? Connect this verse to a specific biblical story or figure? Discuss what this verse might mean for our lives today?