Introductory Thoughts
For a variety of reasons, people do the things they choose to do. Sometimes their motives are right and godly, and at other times, their motives are simply wrong. The motive should never result from strife or vainglory in the Lord’s service. The Lord Jesus Christ, of course, offers the perfect example of someone whose motives were always pure and holy. People often assumed the worst and said untrue things about Him. He certainly had the right and the wherewithal each and every time to correct their errors. He could have won any and every argument without mercy or grace. Yet, His service was not motivated by selfishness or pride. In fact, the Bible points out that He was equal with God, but made Himself of no reputation (Philippians 2:6-7). He knew He was always right but allowed Himself to be defamed for the greater cause.
Devotional Thoughts
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(For children): God gave Moses the position of leading the children of Israel (Acts 7:25; Exodus 3:10). Miriam and Aaron attempted to usurp this position (Numbers 12:2). They would have been serving out of pride, but God quickly stopped their words of strife (Numbers 12:4-15).
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(For everyone): Do you ever do things for the Lord seeking to prove yourself to others? Do you claim to be serving Christ while really trying to show others that you are better than they are?
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Why do you serve the Lord? Do you serve the Lord when no one else notices or only when others are watching? What is your motive for serving?
Prayer Thoughts
- Ask God to help you serve Him with a pure motive.
- Ask the Lord to keep you from competition in His service.
Song
Have I Done My Best for Jesus?
