WHAT MOTIVATES YOU?
Read Acts 7:1-16
Acts 7:8(b)-9, "...Jacob begat the twelve patriarchs. 9And the patriarchs, moved with envy, sold Joseph into Egypt: but God was with him."
Today's verse speaks about that which motivated the older brothers of Joseph to sell him into slavery in Egypt. It was their envy. Their brother, Joseph, was talented and favored; God had a plan for his life; his brothers didn't like the constant attention he received from his father Jacob, and they didn't like his dreams about his future position. All of this led to their being filled with envy and selling him into bondage.
The one thing that should motivate us in everything we do is the glory of God. The fact that we are to obey Him and magnify Him shouldn't be a chore, but rather the very thing that motivates us. Where are you in your life? Are you motivated by personal vendettas? Are you filled with jealousy? Are you envious of others? Are you filled with greed and covetousness? Do these things motivate you to act against others? Do these things cause you to disobey the Lord?
Today, may we examine our hearts and be motivated by bringing God glory, and honor, and majesty. Let your love for God be your constant motivation.
Also, just know that even though Joseph's brothers acted out of evil intentions, God was with him. Joseph was promoted after all his difficulties to the second highest position in all of Egypt. His dreams were true and genuine.
Have a great day being motivated by your love for God.
Your Friend and HIS,
Pastor Abbott
MEDITATIONS
1. Explain how motives relate to actions.
2. What is the greatest thing that motivates you? Why?
3. Would you say that you find your motivation in the Lord or in the flesh? How is your answer exemplified in your life?
4. Is God greater than our circumstances? And if so, how should this motivate us?