Wrong Motives

How can I identify wrong motives as I plan ahead?

God’s Response

Jealousy and selfishness are not God’s kind of wisdom. Such things are earthly, unspiritual, and motivated by the Devil. James 3:15

They come pretending to be sincere and sit before you listening. But they have no intention of doing what I tell them. Ezekiel 33:31

Take care! Don’t do your good deeds publicly, to be admired, because then you will lose the reward from your Father in heaven. Matthew 6:1

Wrong motives for taking on certain activities might include the desire for money or ambition at the expense of a relationship, doing something simply to show off, the need to look sincere (when you’re not), or the need to be admired by people. Take time to pray and honestly consider the motives behind your activities, including the activities you’ve chosen for your children. If your motives are to please God and serve others, then your actions will please him as well.

God’s Promise

Be careful not to jump to conclusions before the Lord returns as to whether or not someone is faithful. When the Lord comes, he will bring our deepest secrets to light and will reveal our private motives. And then God will give to everyone whatever praise is due. 1 Corinthians 4:5