People do things for a variety of reasons. Sometimes they do it because they’re forced to…like me and taking out the garbage. That’s not high on my priority list. Some people are motivated out of fear. They are afraid of negative repercussions when they procrastinate. For example, I was driving around in my little red Volkswagen with bald tires. But before a long trip, I bought new ones…I was afraid of being stuck out in the middle of nowhere with a flat tire. Sometimes we are driven out of pure self-interest. I am a sucker for diet Dr. Pepper. I can rarely pass a convenience store without stopping for a thirst-quencher.
But the greatest motivator of all is love. Doing something for someone because you love them. I’ve been watching four of my grandkids for five days. My youngest is 16 months old. During those 5 days, she had a “poop explosion.” Everything within ten feet was covered with “stuff.” So, my wife and I started cleaning. Not the most pleasant experience. Why do we do it…well “we have to” for sure. But the truth is “we love her” and even the most unpleasant task is different when love is your motivation. That’s the difference between joy and duty in the Christian life. Not every situation is pleasant. But when I do it for the one we love, every task is easier and met with joy instead of obligation. Paul put it this way in 1 Corinthians 10:31 “So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.”
Check your motivation before a “poop explosion” ruins your day! 😀