Topical Encyclopedia In the biblical context, the concept of motive is deeply intertwined with the intentions and desires of the heart. The Scriptures emphasize that God not only observes human actions but also discerns the underlying motives. A right motive is essential for actions to be pleasing to God, and the Bible provides numerous insights into the importance of having pure and righteous intentions.God's Examination of the Heart The Bible consistently teaches that God examines the heart and knows the true motives behind human actions. In 1 Samuel 16:7, the LORD tells Samuel, "Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The LORD does not see as man does. For man sees the outward appearance, but the LORD sees the heart." This passage highlights that God values the inner disposition over external appearances. Similarly, Proverbs 16:2 states, "All a man’s ways are pure in his own eyes, but his motives are weighed by the LORD." This verse underscores the idea that while humans may justify their actions, God evaluates the sincerity and righteousness of their motives. The Call for Pure Motives The New Testament further emphasizes the necessity of pure motives in the life of a believer. In Matthew 6:1, Jesus warns, "Be careful not to perform your righteous acts before men to be seen by them. If you do, you will have no reward from your Father in heaven." Here, Jesus cautions against performing good deeds for the sake of human recognition, urging believers to seek God's approval instead. The Apostle Paul also addresses the issue of motives in his letters. In 1 Corinthians 4:5, he writes, "Therefore judge nothing before the appointed time; wait until the Lord comes. He will bring to light what is hidden in darkness and will expose the motives of men’s hearts. At that time each will receive his praise from God." Paul reminds the Corinthians that God will ultimately reveal and judge the true intentions of every heart. Examples of Right and Wrong Motives The Bible provides numerous examples of individuals whose motives were either commended or condemned by God. In the Old Testament, King David is often portrayed as a man after God's own heart (1 Samuel 13:14), despite his failures. His genuine repentance and desire to please God demonstrate a right motive. Conversely, the Pharisees in the New Testament are frequently criticized for their hypocritical motives. In Matthew 23:5, Jesus says, "All their deeds are done for men to see. They broaden their phylacteries and lengthen their tassels." Their actions, though outwardly religious, were driven by a desire for human admiration rather than a sincere devotion to God. The Role of Love in Right Motives Love is a central theme in the Bible and is often presented as the foundation of right motives. In 1 Corinthians 13:1-3, Paul emphasizes that without love, even the most impressive actions are meaningless: "If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal... If I give all I possess to the poor and exult in the surrender of my body, but have not love, I gain nothing." Love, therefore, is the essential motive that should drive all actions. Prayer for Pure Motives Believers are encouraged to seek God's help in cultivating pure motives. Psalm 139:23-24 is a prayer that reflects this desire: "Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my concerns. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting." This prayer acknowledges the need for divine guidance in aligning one's motives with God's will. In summary, the Bible teaches that right motives are required for actions to be truly pleasing to God. Through the examination of the heart, the call for pure intentions, and the emphasis on love, Scripture provides a comprehensive understanding of the importance of motives in the life of a believer. Nave's Topical Index Matthew 6:1-18Take heed that you do not your alms before men, to be seen of them: otherwise you have no reward of your Father which is in heaven. Nave's Topical Index Library The Christian Aim and Motive. Schools. Certainty of Our Justification. Unity of Moral Action. The Coming of the Called. Systematic Theology. Lecture I. Whether one virtue Can be in Several Powers? Importance of Small Things in Religion On Contrition Pleasing Christ Resources When is the right time to build a new church building? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is seed faith? What is a seed faith offering? | GotQuestions.org What does the Bible say about motives? | GotQuestions.org Motive: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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