KNOW THE WHY

WARM-UP

If we are pursuing goals based on harmful motivations, then achieving those goals will never result in true fulfillment. Sure, there might be short-term value, but long-term wrong motivations might be an indicator that we are simply trying to replace something much bigger that’s missing in our hearts.

WORKOUT

Those negative “whys” are not from God but instead are from an enemy that doesn’t want us to experience the fullness of life.

The thief’s purpose is to steal and kill and destroy (John 10:10a). 

Satan wants us to be all wrapped up in guilt, shame, hurts, pain, and pressures to perform in search of approval. He lures us with pleasure and desires that can only hurt us in the long run. And even when we have good pursuits, he uses lies and deceit to taint our motivations with selfishness, greed, and pride.

Is it possible that a better life awaits us? Is it possible that there’s a better path that God has laid out for each and every one? Is it possible that there is a greater purpose than what we currently live for in this very moment?

God’s Word answers that question with a resounding, “Yes!” 

My purpose is to give them a rich and satisfying life (John 10:10b).

Changing our “what” is a big part of understanding what Jesus is talking about, but changing our “why” is the key to truly unlocking the door to that “rich and satisfying life.”

Q: Is it possible to have healthy goals but impure motives for reaching them? Explain.

Q: What do you think Jesus means when He talks about a “rich and satisfying life?”

Q: What would that look like for you personally?

WRAP-UP

Pursue Life

If you’re tired of being consumed with unhealthy motivations that drive you into meaningless pursuits, consider these three things that will help you pursue life--the rich and satisfying life that can be found in a relationship with Jesus Christ:

1. Open Your Heart. The first step in pursuing your new life in Christ is to be open to the possibility your motivations might be pushing you in the wrong direction.

Read Psalm 139:23-24.

2. Examine Your Heart. Be honest with yourself. Take a look deep inside your heart and ask yourself those questions that deal with motivation. What “whys” are driving the pursuit of your goals? More importantly, allow God to examine your heart so He can reveal to you what needs to change.

Read Psalm 26:2.

3. Surrender Your Heart. Give your pursuits and your motivations to Jesus. Ask Him to give you new pursuits, and if your pursuits are right and good, ask Him to give you pure motives for achieving those things.

Read Proverbs 16:1-3.

As you get rid of the impure motives and replace them with healthy, life-affirming desires, you’ll find yourself living out the truth in our theme verse: 1 Timothy 6:11.