You may recall from the beginning of this series that we are on this journey together. God has called me – and inLight Consulting – to more. Like you, I feel the tension of transition in the air. God is up to something.
Up to this point in the series, I have been introducing (and applying to myself) the basic principles that I share with other Workplace Leaders. This past week, God introduced something extra.
It is not unusual for God to add something particular for the person I am discipling. In this case, that person is me. I hope it will also help some of you.
Man’s chief end is to glorify God, and to enjoy him forever. Westminster Shorter Catechism
Motivation is a big deal in the kingdom of God. As we prepare ourselves to be transformed by the Holy Spirit for the more of God’s call, it will do us well to check our motivation.
Why are you following Jesus? Why did you say the “sinner’s prayer”? Why did you make that fateful decision? Why are interested in the more God is offering you?
If your primary motivation is for yourself (e.g., to experience the more), you will end up with a humanistic journey and outcome. Is your primary motivation “to be a blessing to others”? Again, humanism.
This may be an epiphany for you, as it was for me. Step back for a moment and consider: Humanism has so infiltrated the Western church, that it has become our normal operating model.
Why should people become Christians? Is it for them, or for Him? Why do we send missionaries to the four corners of the Earth? Is it for those lost souls, or for the One Who deserves the reward for His sufferings?
For by Him all things were created that are in heaven and that are on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or principalities or powers. All things were created through Him and for Him. Colossians 1:16
God so loves the world, that it is hard for us to keep our hearts and minds straight about the reason for our being here. Take note: It is for His glory, kingdom and pleasure. Do we benefit? Absolutely! Should we (i.e., humankind) be the primary focus? Absolutely not!!!
Be careful! Don’t let this slip past your earnest consideration. I strongly recommend a message by Paris Reidhead, entitled “Ten Shekels and a Shirt”. You can find it, along with many other wonderful sermons from the last 100 years, on Sermonindex.net.
In closing, let me encourage you that you do not have to work up the motivation that God desires. He has put it in your heart. The process is simple:
If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. 1John 1:9
Confess your sinful motivations, accept His forgiveness, and trust in His cleansing. Then, simply ask Him to stir up the desire in your heart for His glory. You will be glad you did.
Humbly yours and forever His,
Rob