We all have things we have to do, but we don’t all operate from the same motives.
We could even do the exact same tasks and have different experiences and outcomes based on what motivates us.
Your motives and mindset are important. These dictate your attitude.
If you are asked to do something that seems meaningless, below you, or is just plain unenjoyable, how do you react? Do you grumble and complain? Do you seek to get out of it altogether?
I want to challenge you to look at your motives. Often this attitude is rooted in pride.
You can change your motives and your mindset, thus changing your attitude and your experience of the task.
As a Christian, your motives should be pure, seeking to honor the Lord.
If you are grumbling while the person beside you is rejoicing, ask yourself why.
He is honored by the preacher that lovingly preaches the whole truth of Scripture, but He is also honored by the servant that willingly cleans toilets and takes out the trash. He is honored by the wife that willingly makes her husband’s lunch or irons his clothes. He is honored by the teenager that takes a stand against sin even if they are standing alone. He is honored by the Christian that does not seek to get the applause of others.
God sees your heart. Your motives matter. If your motives are temporal things such as status, money, or emotions, it will not last or lead to faithful service.
Regardless of where the Lord has you, you can worship and rejoice.
Your motives are also contagious.
You may have a spouse or a child watching your reactions.
You may be influencing another Christian or a coworker.
Your motives are part of your testimony.
Doing something halfway or grumbling sends a message to that lost coworker that Christians aren’t any different than the lost.
“She seeketh wool, and flax, and worketh willingly with her hands.” Proverbs 31:13 KJV
“And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men;” Colossians 3:23 KJV
“Let nothing be done through strife or vainglory; but in lowliness of mind let each esteem other better than themselves.” Philippians 2:3 KJV
“Not with eyeservice, as menpleasers; but as the servants of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart; With good will doing service, as to the Lord, and not to men:” Ephesians 6:6-7 KJV
Let your attitude be one that says, “I get to,” not “I have to.” God doesn’t have to use us, He chooses to. Be a vessel God can use.
Let your motivation be so that others can glorify your Father based on what they see in you. Your attitude has the power to draw others to Christ. Glorify Him in all you say and do.
Stay in the Word, stay close to the Shepherd, and let Him lead you in paths of righteousness.
With Hope in His Service,
Heather
Proverbs_31Life 