In what ways can we ensure our motives align with Philippians 1:17? Setting the Scene “ ‘The former, however, preach Christ out of selfish ambition, not sincerely, supposing that they can add to the distress of my chains.’ ” (Philippians 1:17) Two Contrasting Motives in the Verse • Selfish ambition • Sincere, gospel-centered love (implied by the contrast with verse 16) Why Motives Matter • Proverbs 16:2 – “All a man’s ways are pure in his own eyes, but his motives are weighed out by the LORD.” • 1 Corinthians 13:3 – Ministry without love “profits me nothing.” • Matthew 6:1 – Righteous acts done “to be seen” forfeit heavenly reward. Practical Ways to Align Our Motives 1. Examine the Heart Regularly • Pray Psalm 139:23-24. • Ask: “Would I still serve if no one noticed?” (Matthew 6:4). 2. Seek the Glory of Christ Alone • Galatians 1:10 – Aim to please God, not people. • Colossians 3:23 – Work “with all your heart, as working for the Lord.” 3. Cultivate Love for the People You Serve • 1 Thessalonians 2:7-8 – Paul’s gentle, affectionate model. • 1 John 4:19 – Serve out of gratitude for His love. 4. Guard Against Envy and Rivalry • James 3:16 – Envy breeds disorder. • Celebrate others’ successes; pray for fellow workers. 5. Keep the Gospel Central • 2 Corinthians 4:5 – “We do not preach ourselves, but Jesus Christ as Lord.” • Filter plans through the question: “Will this advance the gospel?” 6. Embrace Humble Accountability • Invite trusted believers to speak into your life (Hebrews 3:13). • Confess selfish attitudes quickly (James 5:16). Daily Habits That Reinforce Pure Motives • Short, sincere gratitude list each morning to keep pride in check. • Quiet, unseen acts of service to train the heart away from applause. • Memorize key verses (e.g., Philippians 2:3-4) as internal guardrails. • End each day with a brief motive audit: “Whom did I aim to magnify today?” The Fruit of Aligned Motives • Joy that circumstances cannot steal (Philippians 1:18). • Credible witness before believers and skeptics alike (1 Peter 2:12). • Eternal reward from the Lord who “searches hearts and minds” (Revelation 2:23). |
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