Motives That MatterSample

All a person’s ways seem pure to them, but motives are weighed by the Lord. Proverbs 16:2 New International Version

I was born and raised in a small Oklahoma town known for its charm and warm hospitality. Perhaps this is why our pastor asked me to take over the Hospitality Committee at church. Our congregation was small, but growing, and needed a friendly person with good leadership skills to pilot the team. Apparently, my accent, smile, and long-standing career in Human Resources qualified me for the role. After thinking it over for a few days, I agreed to take on the assignment.

I went to work right away recruiting greeters, security guards, ushers, parking lot attendants, and event coordinators. I quickly learned that the recruitment and retention of volunteers is much harder than that of workers who receive a paycheck for their services. I found myself filling in often for someone who was either sick, out of town, or forgot it was their week to volunteer. I despised every minute of it; I dreaded Sunday mornings.

What was more frustrating than filling in for others was the seeming lack of recognition from God that I expected to receive for my good work. Because I was working for the church, I expected to experience fruit for my labor. However, I never did, and now I know why—I wasn’t serving out of a pure heart; I was serving out of obligation. My motive was to fulfill a commitment to our pastor. I was more concerned with receiving the approval of man instead of God (Galatians 1:10).

Self-serving motivation is not pleasing to God (Romans 8:8). In fact, it can hinder our prayers (James 4:3) and rob us of blessings. Motivation is more important to God than action, but that does not mean those to whom we show good fortune will not benefit from our deeds. On the contrary—God can and does still use our works to bless others and glorify His name.

My experience as the Hospitality Coordinator taught me a valuable lesson. Now, instead of saying yes right away to an invitation to serve, I ask God if the activity is something He has called me to do and to reveal any negative motives hidden in my heart (Psalm 139:23).

We were created with a purpose, and we have gifts and talents that benefit others through our good works, but motives matter. Join me tomorrow as we continue our journey together and explore how to avoid burnout amidst our good deeds.