A Prayer About Motives

When I want to be sure I do what is right for the right reasons

DEAR JESUS,

I want to do what is right in all areas of my life—physical, mental, social, and spiritual. But I need to act for the right reasons. Sometimes, regardless of what I profess, I talk in a certain way to make a good impression on others, even when participating in a Bible study or Sunday school class. At times, I may try to enhance my reputation when I feed those who are hungry, serve the needy, or do another act of kindness. I may even give money to the church to gain some sort of recognition or influence. And often I act out of guilt. All those motives fall woefully short of what you want, and some are sinful. When I do good works for self-serving reasons, I harm my relationship with you and rob myself of the joy you want me to have. Please forgive me, Lord. Purify my heart. I want to do everything for the Kingdom with the goal of bringing glory to you. May my actions flow from my love and gratitude for you.

People may be pure in their own eyes, but the LORD examines their motives. Proverbs 16:2