Reflecting on our motives is a crucial aspect of Christian living, as it involves examining the intentions behind our actions and aligning them with God's will. The Bible provides numerous insights into the importance of pure motives and the dangers of deceitful intentions.

Biblical Foundation

The Bible emphasizes the significance of the heart and the motives that drive human behavior. In 1 Samuel 16:7, the Lord tells Samuel, "Do not consider his appearance or his 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 highlights that God looks beyond external actions to the intentions and desires within the heart.

Proverbs 16:2 further underscores this truth: "All a man’s ways are pure in his own eyes, but his motives are weighed by the LORD." This passage reminds believers that while humans may justify their actions, God discerns the true motives behind them.

Self-Examination and Prayer

Reflecting on our motives requires self-examination and prayer. Psalm 139:23-24 is a prayerful plea for divine insight: "Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my concerns. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting." This prayer invites God to reveal hidden motives and guide the believer toward righteousness.

James 4:3 warns against selfish motives in prayer: "And when you do ask, you do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, that you may squander it on your pleasures." This verse encourages believers to assess their intentions in prayer, ensuring they align with God's purposes rather than personal gain.

Purity of Heart

The call to purity of heart is central to Christian ethics. Jesus teaches in Matthew 5:8, "Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God." Purity of heart involves having motives that are sincere and untainted by selfish desires. This beatitude promises the reward of divine fellowship for those who maintain pure motives.

In Philippians 2:3-4, Paul exhorts believers to act with humility and selflessness: "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or empty pride, but in humility consider others more important than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others." This passage encourages Christians to prioritize the well-being of others, reflecting motives that are aligned with Christ's example.

The Role of the Holy Spirit

The Holy Spirit plays a vital role in helping believers reflect on and purify their motives. Galatians 5:16-17 instructs, "So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. For the flesh craves what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the flesh." By yielding to the Holy Spirit, Christians can overcome fleshly desires and cultivate motives that honor God.

Accountability and Community

Engaging in Christian community provides accountability and support in reflecting on motives. Proverbs 27:17 states, "As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another." Fellowship with other believers encourages mutual growth and the examination of one's heart in light of biblical truth.

Conclusion

Reflecting on our motives is an ongoing process that requires humility, prayer, and the guidance of the Holy Spirit. By aligning our intentions with God's will, we can live lives that are pleasing to Him and reflect His love to the world.