Right Motives

What are some right motives?

God’s Response

When they came to the other side, Elijah said to Elisha, “What can I do for you before I am taken away?”And Elisha replied, “Please let me become your rightful successor.” 2 Kings 2:9

Give me wisdom and knowledge to rule them properly, for who is able to govern this great nation of yours? 2 Chronicles 1:10

Once more he asked him, “Simon son of John, do you love me? . . . Then feed my sheep.” John 21:17

God is pleased when you serve him simply because you want to. Wanting to follow in the footsteps of a godly person as Elisha did is a noble motive, as is desiring to serve God and to do your work well. God wants you to act out of love for him. One of the ways to test your motives is to ask yourself why you are considering an activity. If the answer that pops into your head is that you want to help or serve others in some way, that is a good reason to get involved. If your answer involves status, reward, or recognition, you have the wrong motives.

God’s Promise

We speak as messengers who have been approved by God to be entrusted with the Good News. Our purpose is to please God, not people. He is the one who examines the motives of our hearts. 1 Thessalonians 2:4