What's the Point? (A Study in Ecclesiastes: Part 3)Sample

MOTIVATION MATTERS

Ecclesiastes 12:13 instructs us to do two things; the first is to ‘Fear God’, which we started talking about yesterday. The second instruction related to the reverence of God is to ‘keep His commandments.’ On the surface, this sounds like simple obedience. However, like truth and delight (see Day 7), fearing God and keeping His commandments are interrelated.

With obedience to God, motivation matters. Suppose we obey because of a fear of punishment (being hurt) instead of obeying with reverential awe. In that case, our experience will be unsatisfying, and our hearts will be hardened toward him. In contrast, a heart softened toward the things of God will reside in His love and be blessed. A servant that obeys out of reverential awe acknowledges that nothing of this world has saved him; God and God alone is worthy of praise.

Ask Yourself: What type of situations tempt you to obey God out of any motivation other than reverential awe? What are those other motivations? What type of situations do you find it difficult to obey God’s commands regardless of motivation?

Pause to Pray: Confess any misplaced motivations you may have and receive His forgiveness. Ask Him to purify your heart as you seek to follow Him in true obedience to His commands.

Take the Next Step: Read Matthew 22:36-40. Prayerfully consider how faithfully you are keeping the ‘greatest’ commandment. Is there room for improvement? Ask God for help!