TWO MOTIVES TEST

'... He will receive his reward' 1 Corinthians 3:14

1) You know the kind of parent who buys off their child with presents? The sort that's too busy to spend time with them, so they lob phones and iPods at the kid to ease their own guilt. It might be nice to receive the gifts, but it doesn't say much for the relationship.

It's the same with God. We can throw all our time and efforts into doing stuff for God, but if we're not stopping for a chat and quality time together our relationship is non-existent. The church at Ephesus got a holy rollicking for this: 'I know your works, your labour, your patience... Nevertheless I have this against you, that you have left your first love' (Revelation 2:2-4 NKJ).

God loves your all-out efforts for Him, but misses the sound of your voice. Don't be too busy to pray. 2) Jesus slated nominees for Holy Busybody of the Year. You know the kind: do-gooders with all but a DVD box-set of all their best charitable moments. When we try to walk off with the Best Christian in a Leading Role Award, God sees through the appearance. So, aim to please God, not people.

What now? 'I x-ray every motive and make sure you get what's coming to you' (Revelation 2:23 TM). The pressure to look good is off. This verse says, "how about looking transparent instead?" Make sure your motives are clear. Ask yourself why you do Christian things - from and for God, or for people?

written by Bob Gass