What we do in ministry is important—a Biblically directed service is essential. The way we do it matters, also. The end does not justify the means. But, why we do Gospel work counts much, for God does not judge as man does—by outward appearance—rather the Lord looks at the heart The right thing done the right way apart from being done for the right reason makes it wrong!
Stephen Olford wrote about motives in, “According to Your Word.”
“You are worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honor and power; for You created all things, and by Your will they exist and were created.” – Revelation 4:11
I have been created, and am now living, for the pleasure (and by the will) of God if these three characteristics are true of me:
He is worthy to receive glory. My life should have as its first characteristic the glorifying of God. The Lord says in John 15:8, “By this My Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit,” the fruit of character.
He is worthy to receive honor. Here is the second characteristic: to give God honor is to give Him His due. He is worthy of all.
He is worthy to receive power. Thirdly, power. Not only what He does in me and what I am, but also He is worthy to receive what I can do!
May all that I am and all that I do bring You glory and honor and power. Amen.
It is far too easy to seek the glory that only God deserves, to want the honor which rightfully only belongs to God, and to exercise power for the benefit we receive rather than laboring for the Lord. Yet such motives will eventually be exposed—if not on earth, then in eternity. At the judgment seat of Christ, we may find much of our ministry, when tested by fire, is incinerated—unworthy of reward. Ask the Holy Spirit today to shine his light upon your ministry and reveal if there be any iniquity in your motivation. Join with the Psalmist in praying, “Search me, O God, and know my heart: Try me, and know my thoughts: And see if there be any wicked way in me, And lead me in the way everlasting.” (Ps.139:23-24)
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