Our Motives Matter

By Kay Heitsch

Why do we do the things we do? Our motives for doing them matter.

People do many good things for different motives. They may sit in a pew because their mom did, or they may do good works, pray, and read the Bible because they think it's their obligation.

Years ago, I had this interesting experience. I usually enjoyed studying the Bible. I looked forward to spending time with the Lord, learning new things, and understanding how to have a great life right here on earth.

However, one day I didn't want to do it! There I sat on the couch, and for some reason, I had a feeling that this study was an obligation. I would do it because it was right, but my motive for doing it was wrong!

When out of nowhere, I felt the Lord whisper to my heart, You are under no obligation to study this Bible. I've paid the price for your eternal life! You don't have to do anything, but accept that what Jesus did was good enough for you!

Let me tell you, once the pressure was off, I now had a want-to feeling. My motive for studying that day totally changed.

Our Bible verse says. You may think everything you do is right, but the Lord judges your motives.

That day, I was going to do what was right in my eyes. However, my motive was wrong.

Why do we do the things we do? Our motives for doing them matter.