Our Primary Motivation

"Jesus answered them and said, “Most assuredly, I say to you, you seek Me, not because you saw the signs, but because you ate of the loaves and were filled. Do not labor for the food which perishes, but for the food which endures to everlasting life, which the Son of Man will give you, because God the Father has set His seal on Him....And Jesus said to them, “I am the bread of life. He who comes to Me shall never hunger, and he who believes in Me shall never thirst." - John 6:26-27, 35

For the natural man or woman it is natural that they are drawn to the things of this world. To food and drink and shelter and then to the things of the world that bring comfort and pleasure. It's natural - instinctual even. But for the Christian who has been born again by the Spirit, we should have a new primary motivation. That being doing the will of the Father. 

"But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you." - Matthew 6:33

It is not that we should forsake eating or being comfortable, but that satisfying our flesh and natural desires should not be our primary motivation with respect to how we live and make life choices. Our choices and actions should always be in the context of our new life. 

"Then Jesus said to His disciples, If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me." - Matthew 16:24

If you want to be like Jesus, and I assume you do, then you have to lay your old life and its desires aside and seek the kingdom of God. Paul encouraged the church in Rome ....

"I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service. And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God." - Romans 12:1-2

It is a common, even prevalent, theme in the New Testament and why do you suppose that is? Because it is a common problem for virtually all Christians. We all struggle with a virtual tug of war between our old and new natures. And whichever one is strongest is the one that will prevail. 

"Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—is not of the Father but is of the world. And the world is passing away, and the lust of it; but he who does the will of God abides forever." -  1 John 2:15-17

Why do I share so much scripture? Because it is the means by which the Spirit of God speaks to us and teaches us. 

"All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work." -  2 Timothy 3:16-17

My words may poke you, but the Word of God will pierce your heart. 

Think about it – Pray about it – Believe it – Walk in it. Let your light shine and give God the glory. 

By Faith Alone By His Grace Alone And For His Glory Alone