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 into Egypt, it was their envy.  Their brother, Joseph, was talented, he was 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 thing that should motivate us in everything 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 life?  Are you motivated by personal vendettas?  Are you filled with jealousy?  Are you envious of others?  Do these things motivate you to act against others?  Do these things cause you to disobey the Lord?

Today, may we be motivated by bringing God glory, and honour, 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 of 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.  Have you ever acted with a wrong motivation?  What prompted your actions?

2.  What should ultimately motivate us?  How can you live to glorify God?

3.  If you have any ill feelings in your life toward any other person, please determine to get it right today?  How will you make things right?