Introduction

Evaluating our motives is a critical aspect of Christian living, as it involves examining the intentions behind our actions and decisions. The Bible provides guidance on the importance of pure motives and the consequences of harboring impure intentions. This entry explores biblical teachings on evaluating our motives, drawing from various scriptures to highlight the significance of aligning our hearts with God's will.

Biblical Foundation

The Bible emphasizes the importance of the heart and the motives that drive our actions. In 1 Samuel 16:7, the Lord reminds Samuel, "Do not consider his appearance or height, for I have rejected him. The LORD does not see as man does. For man sees the outward appearance, but the LORD sees the heart." This verse underscores that God evaluates the heart's intentions rather than external appearances.

Proverbs 16:2 states, "All a man’s ways are pure in his own eyes, but his motives are weighed by the LORD." This proverb highlights the human tendency to justify one's actions while reminding believers that God discerns the true motives behind them.

The Call for Self-Examination

Scripture calls believers to examine their motives regularly. In Psalm 139:23-24, David prays, "Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my concerns. See if there is any offensive way in me; lead me in the way everlasting." This prayer reflects a desire for God to reveal hidden motives and guide the believer toward righteousness.

The Apostle Paul also encourages self-examination in 2 Corinthians 13:5: "Examine yourselves to see whether you are in the faith; test yourselves. Can’t you see for yourselves that Jesus Christ is in you—unless you actually fail the test?" This call to introspection is vital for ensuring that one's faith and motives align with Christ's teachings.

Motives in Worship and Service

The Bible warns against performing religious acts with impure motives. In Matthew 6:1, Jesus instructs, "Be careful not to perform your righteous acts before men to be seen by them. If you do, you will have no reward from your Father in heaven." This teaching emphasizes that acts of worship and service should be directed toward God, not for human recognition.

Similarly, in Philippians 2:3, Paul advises, "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or empty pride, but in humility consider others more important than yourselves." This verse calls believers to serve with humility and selflessness, reflecting Christ's example.

Consequences of Impure Motives

The Bible illustrates the consequences of harboring impure motives. In Acts 5:1-11, the account of Ananias and Sapphira serves as a sobering reminder of the dangers of deceitful intentions. Their attempt to deceive the early church about their donation resulted in severe judgment from God.

James 4:3 further warns, "And when you do ask, you do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, that you may squander it on your pleasures." This passage highlights that prayers driven by selfish desires are ineffective and contrary to God's will.

The Role of the Holy Spirit

The Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in helping believers evaluate and purify their motives. In Galatians 5:16, Paul writes, "So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh." By yielding to the Holy Spirit, believers can overcome fleshly desires and cultivate motives that honor God.

Romans 8:27 also assures believers that "He who searches our hearts knows the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for the saints according to the will of God." The Holy Spirit aids in aligning our motives with God's purposes, ensuring that our actions reflect His will.

Conclusion

Evaluating our motives is an ongoing process that requires humility, self-examination, and reliance on the Holy Spirit. By aligning our intentions with God's will, we can live lives that honor Him and reflect His love to the world.