Love

Love is patient; love is kind. Love does not envy; is not boastful; is not conceited;5 does not act improperly; is not selfish; is not provoked; does not keep a record of wrongs;6 finds no joy in unrighteousness, but rejoices in the truth;7 bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things.

1 Cor 13:4-7 (HCSB)

Last time we talked about motivation. The right motivation is important but what is that right motivation? It is love. Not love as defined by our culture but love defined by Scripture. The apostle Paul describes that love in these verses. Take some time to really reflect on all of the qualities and characteristics found here in 1 Corinthians 13. Do you find them in your life? Are they part of your character, your nature? Do you have to work at them?

It is interesting that in a closer examination some have suggested these are really the fruit of the Spirit (Gal. 5.22ff) reworded. It is an interesting theological/Biblical discussion. But it is worthy to be reminded that without us surrendering to the control and work of the Holy Spirit in our lives it really is impossible for us to genuinely love as Paul describes.

Paul challenges the Christ follower to look deeply into the heart, surrender to the Holy Spirit and love others as Christ has loved us.

Motivation

If I speak the languages of men and of angels, but do not have love, I am a sounding gong or a clanging cymbal.2 If I have [the gift of] prophecy,and understand all mysteries and all knowledge,and if I have all faith, so that I can move mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing.3 And if I donate all my goods to feed the poor, and if I give my body to be burned, but do not have love, I gain nothing.

1 Cor 13:1-3 (HCSB)

What motivates us in spiritual terms is more important than what we do! I know that is a challenging statement. Of first importance to God is the motivation of our hearts and second is the work that we are involved in. The apostle Paul say you can speak with wisdom, skill and impressive abilities but without love it is worthless. You can sacrifice yourself on the altar of martyrdom but for the wrong reasons it has no value. You can give everything in your possession but without the right motivation it is of no spiritual reward. Motivation is important. Take a few moments and evaluate why you are doing what you are doing. Allow God to challenge your heart about your motivation.

A sure Hope

This hope we have as an anchor of the soul, a hope both sure and steadfast and one which enters within the veil,

Heb 6:19 (NASB95)