What's Your Motivation?

Right now, I am reading several books on the gospel.  It is interesting how each one is helping me better grasp the truth of the gospel.  Each comes from a different perspective, but have many overlaps as well. 

These books are:
  • The Gospel of Peace by James Richards
  • When Sinners Say I Do by Dave Harvey
  • Jesus + Nothing = Everything by Tullian Tchividjian
  • Good & Beautiful God by James Bryan Smith
I think what all of them agree on is the need to understand who God is and who we are in Christ.  This truth is so important because that will then impact what we say and do.  Rather than participate in the "pendulum swing", they give a balanced view of love & holiness.  Both are important and when we respond to an extreme in either one, we do not have a Biblical understanding of God.

They also speak to our motivations.  Why are we serving in the church?  Why are we loving others?  What is our response when we sin?  All of these authors would agree that a heart change is essential rather than following rules.  It is all about relationship not religion.  How we view God affects how we answer these questions.  This applies to the Christian and non-Christian alike.

So, how about you?  Are you trying to make God love you?  Are you afraid of taking a risk because God might punish you?  Do you use punishment as a way to make people be good (this can be as a pastor, teacher, parent, or friend)?  I would encourage you to pick up the Bible and look at how Jesus describes God.  Read Ephesians 1 to remind yourself who you are in Christ.  Reflect on Jesus' death and resurrection as you ponder your sin.  Pick up a concordance and look at all the verses about the Holy Spirit's power in us.  Are you experiencing it? 

After this, answer the question I posed as the title for this post?

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