What motivates me? Often it is pleasure—reading a good book, skiing, playing with the kids, sex, even work. I enjoy it. It is self-satisfying. Sometimes it is fear—peer pressure, criticism, and guilt to name a few. Maybe I am motivated to gain something—prestige, money, pride, or power. Sometimes I have to. I can’t avoid it—earn a living, or managing the household and kids.
But what motivates me to seek an intimate relationship with God? Is it the beauty of his creation—the flowers, diversity of life, the Grand Canyon or Rockies? Is it the things he has provided for me—my job, a wonderful spouse, good health, kids? Or am I motivated by fear? He might punish me if I don’t live right. Maybe I am looking for a reward. If I live right, how will God reward me? Most all these factors at one time or another has probably motivated us.
So is there a motivational difference between our living activities and knowing God better? Yes! It begins by recognizing the immeasurable power, presence, and knowledge of God. We are created and finite. He is uncreated and infinite. We tend to think in the present. He is eternal. Because we receive unmerited love, we learn how to love. We discover purpose in life because he teaches us there is purpose beyond death. We have hope! Our motivations change from self-satisfaction and self-interest to obeying God and glorifying Him. But this takes time, effort, and discipline. Like any human relationship, we must persevere in our efforts—that is Motivated Spirituality!
