"Right" Things, Wrong Reasons

My devotional reading a few days ago had some thoughts I've been pondering the last few days. It's about religious people – people that are part of the “churched” community, if you will, doing the right things for the wrong reason. In all the cases I came across this was frowned upon by the Lord.

Isaiah 1:10-17 talks about people that went through all the motions of worship with hearts far from worshipful.

John 12:4-8 relates how Judas had “concern” for the poor but with a heart opposed to God.

Matthew 16:21-23 tells us how Peter made bold statements of love for the Lord, but was, in that moment, aiding the work of satan.

1 Samuel 13:8-9 paints how we can offer sacrifices to God and be in total disobedience doing so!

James 4:3 relays how we can pray with the wrong motives.

I've been thinking how easily it is for a Christian (at any point in their walk) to assume they know God's will on an issue. One might even feel the issue is “cut and dry” but Paul writes: And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not charity, I am nothing. (1 Corinthians 13:2)

All we do should be done out of our love of the Lord and motivation to please Him. As for good council, Solomon pens:

Counsel is mine, and sound wisdom: I am understanding; I have strength. (Proverbs 8:14)

If there is something perplexing in your life, or something you are trying to make sense of, if you have an upcoming decision, or just need strength in your day to day walk, know this dear brothers and sisters, if we ask, we can trust God to lead us in the paths of righteousness. He is the good shepherd. He leads His sheep, and His sheep know His voice. We can please God and we can fight the good fight.

Hallelujah!!

(Psa 23:3, John 10:14,27)