Put me on trial, Lord, and cross-examine me. Test my motives and my heart. (Psalms 26:2 NLT)
There’s a cliche phrase that people often use to justify (either wrongly or rightly) their actions. “God knows my heart.” This is certainly true, but when we say that, are we truly comfortable with what he sees?
Do we ever really consider our motives in the things we do?
When we give – do we do it because it makes us look generous to others? Or because we want to show the love of Jesus to those in need?
When you give to someone in need, don’t do as the hypocrites do—blowing trumpets in the synagogues and streets to call attention to their acts of charity! I tell you the truth, they have received all the reward they will ever get. Give your gifts in private, and your Father, who sees everything, will reward you. (Matthew 6:2, 4 NLT)
When we say “I’ll pray for you.” Do we actually plan to do it? Or is it just something we say because it sounds good?
I urge you, first of all, to pray for all people. Ask God to help them; intercede on their behalf, and give thanks for them. (1 Timothy 2:1 NLT)
What about when we go to church or to other Christian functions. Are we doing it to worship? To be in fellowship with other believers? Or because it’s what the rest of the people in our “circle” are doing and we want to fit in?
They followed a daily discipline of worship in the Temple followed by meals at home, every meal a celebration, exuberant and joyful, as they praised God. People in general liked what they saw. Every day their number grew as God added those who were saved. (Acts 2:46, 47 MSG)
What about the things we don’t do? Sometimes we know we should do something, but we don’t. Other times we may not do something that is unkind, but we sure think about it.
What I don’t understand about myself is that I decide one way, but then I act another, doing things I absolutely despise. (Romans 7:15 MSG)
These are some of the moments when God knows our motives. He absolutely loves us despite our errors, but he is sad that we are missing out on the amazing opportunities to give with a joyful heart; to be part of his plan through prayer; to worship him in Spirit; to lovingly fellowship; to show love to others through the things we do; and to be aware that our negative thoughts can be apparent even if we don’t act on them.
If we are truly know that God knows our motives, we should be more mindful of what our motives are.