What's In It For Me?

Have you ever asked someone to do something for you, and they either did it poorly or “forgot.” Maybe they said, “That’s on the top of my list. I can’t believe I haven’t done it yet. Please forgive me,” or “I wish you’d have reminded me sooner. You know I want to help you!” Perhaps they were waiting for you to do something for them first.

Had there been something very special or unique in “it” for them for doing the task, it probably would have been done. Most individuals want to receive some type of recognition or reward for helping others. It’s usually a “what’s in it for me” attitude that paralyzes many from being helpful. When our requests for assistance are for the ordinary, everyday, boring things of life that have little glamour or glory, they are easily set aside for the more important things that bring rewards or recognition. Few willingly become involved with the problems of others when the rewards are small or insignificant.

Everyone needs attention and recognition. It’s part of how God made us. However, we must always be conscious of one important fact: Whatever we do must ultimately be done to glorify God. If we do the right “thing” for the wrong reason - to bring recognition to ourselves - we cannot expect God to bless it or us. In fact, we should not expect His blessings at all.

“All a man’s ways seem innocent to him, but motives are weighed by the Lord,” wrote Solomon. We rarely stop and think about being accountable to God for every “thing” we do, but we are. God knows our “motives” and “weighs” them in light of His Word. Our motives matter!

Prayer: We ask, Father, to be alert to all that we say or do. May our motives come from our heart that has You and Your Word at its center and will honor You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Scripture For Today: Proverbs16:2 All a man’s ways seem innocent to him, but motives are weighed by the Lord.