What are some good, God-honoring motives?

Exodus 25:2“Tell the people of Israel to bring me their sacred offerings. Accept the contributions from all whose hearts are moved to offer them.”

Isaiah 11:3-4He will delight in obeying the Lord. He will not judge by appearance nor make a decision based on hearsay. He will give justice to the poor and make fair decisions for the exploited. The earth will shake at the force of his word, and one breath from his mouth will destroy the wicked.

Wanting to serve and obey God are beautiful motives for any action.

2 Kings 2:9When they came to the other side, Elijah said to Elisha, “Tell me what I can do for you before I am taken away.” And Elisha replied, “Please let me inherit a double share of your spirit and become your successor.”

1 Corinthians 4:15-16Even if you had ten thousand others to teach you about Christ, you have only one spiritual father. For I became your father in Christ Jesus when I preached the Good News to you. So I urge you to imitate me.

1 Corinthians 11:1You should imitate me, just as I imitate Christ.

Wanting to follow the example of godly people in order to live a more godly life is a healthy motive for doing something.

2 Chronicles 1:10“Give me the wisdom and knowledge to lead them properly, for who could possibly govern this great people of yours?”

James 1:5If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and he will give it to you. He will not rebuke you for asking.

God is always pleased when our motive for growing in wisdom and knowledge is to serve him more effectively.

John 21:17A third time he [Jesus] asked him, “Simon son of John, do you love me?” Peter was hurt that Jesus asked the question a third time. He said, “Lord, you know everything. You know that I love you.” Jesus said, “Then feed my sheep.”

Helping others out of love for God, not out of a desire for personal praise or as a way to impress God, is a worthy motive.

Galatians 6:4Pay careful attention to your own work, for then you will get the satisfaction of a job well done, and you won’t need to compare yourself to anyone else.

We should be motivated to do what is right because it is right, not because it will benefit us or impress others.