How can we ensure our motives align with God's will, per Galatians 6:13? Setting the Scene “ For the circumcised do not even keep the law themselves, yet they want you to be circumcised that they may boast in your flesh.” (Galatians 6:13) Paul exposes religious influencers who push circumcision only so they can brag about their converts. The practice itself isn’t the issue; the heart behind it is. God cares about motives—why we act, speak, serve, or give. Expose the Motive Problem • Outward compliance without inward surrender is hypocrisy (Matthew 23:27). • Boasting in human achievements steals glory from God (Isaiah 42:8). • Self-promotion turns ministry into merchandise (2 Peter 2:3). Anchoring Motives in the Gospel • Remember who saved us: “I no longer live, but Christ lives in me.” (Galatians 2:20) • Remember why He saved us: “to the praise of His glorious grace.” (Ephesians 1:6) • Remember what counts: “faith expressing itself through love.” (Galatians 5:6) Practical Heart Checks • Ask, “Would I do this if no one ever knew?” (Matthew 6:1-4) • Measure against 1 Corinthians 10:31—does it glorify God or me? • Invite Scripture’s scalpel: “The word of God is living and active… discerning the thoughts and intentions of the heart.” (Hebrews 4:12) • Pray Psalm 139:23-24—“Search me… see if there is any offensive way in me.” • Look for the fruit of the Spirit, not the applause of men (Galatians 5:22-23). Guardrails for Daily Living 1. Saturate your mind with God’s Word; truth realigns motives. 2. Keep short accounts—confess self-seeking impulses immediately. 3. Serve anonymously whenever possible; secrecy starves pride. 4. Celebrate others’ successes; jealousy is motive rot. 5. Practice gratitude; thanking God redirects attention from self to Him. 6. Stay gospel-centered in fellowship—accountable friends spot blind spots. Encouragement From Other Scriptures • James 4:3—wrong motives block answered prayer. • Colossians 3:17—do all in Jesus’ name, giving thanks. • Micah 6:8—walk humbly with your God. • Philippians 2:13—“it is God who works in you to will and to act according to His good purpose.” When our hearts beat for God’s glory, actions naturally align with His will, and the empty boasting Paul rebuked loses its appeal. |
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