Pure Motives
Journeying through the teachings presented in Philippians, the theme of pure motives shines brightly, illuminating the path to a life of authenticity and selflessness. In a world where ulterior motives often lurk beneath the surface of our actions, the words of Paul in Philippians serve as a beacon of truth and guidance for Christians today.
Paul’s letter to the Philippians is filled with wisdom and encouragement, urging believers to embody the humility and sacrificial love of Christ. In Philippians 2:3-4, he writes,
“Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.”
These verses encapsulate the essence of pure motives – prioritizing the needs and well-being of others above our own desires.
In today’s society, where success is often equated with personal gain and recognition, the message of Philippians rings truer than ever. It challenges us to examine our motives in every aspect of our lives, ensuring that they are rooted in genuine love and concern for others rather than self-serving ambitions.
One hymn that beautifully captures this sentiment is “Make Me a Servant” by Kelly Willard. The poignant lyrics,
“Make me a servant, humble and meek. Lord, let me lift up those who are weak,”
echo the call to humility and selflessness found in Philippians. They remind us that true greatness is found in serving others with pure motives, mirroring the example set by Christ himself.
Moreover, poetry has a unique way of expressing profound truths, and the words of Rumi come to mind:
“Let yourself be silently drawn by the strange pull of what you really love. It will not lead you astray.”
This verse serves as a reminder that when our motives are pure and aligned with the love of Christ, we are drawn towards acts of kindness and compassion that reflect the heart of God.
Charles Stanley, a renowned pastor and author, once said, “God’s will is always the best pathway to take, even if it’s the most difficult.” This quote reinforces the idea that pure motives involve aligning our will with God’s, even when it requires sacrifice or discomfort. When we surrender our desires to His, we can trust that He will lead us on the path of righteousness and fulfillment.
In Philippians 4:8, Paul provides further guidance on cultivating pure motives by encouraging believers to focus their thoughts on whatever is:
true,
noble,
right,
pure,
lovely, and
admirable.
This admonition serves as a blueprint for shaping our attitudes and intentions, guiding us away from selfish pursuits and towards a life characterized by integrity and righteousness.
The timeless wisdom of Philippians reminds us that pure motives are not merely a moral ideal but a tangible reality that can be cultivated through intentional effort and reliance on the Holy Spirit. As I reflect on my own journey, I’m challenged to examine my motives in every aspect of my life – from my relation
Philippians offers a powerful message on the importance of pure motives in the Christian walk. Through humility, selflessness, and a focus on what is true and good, we can embody the transformative power of Christ’s love and leave a lasting impact on the world around us. As I strive to live out these principles in my own life, I’m reminded of the words of Philippians 1:6,
“Being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.”
With God’s help, we can cultivate pure motives and become vessels of His grace in a world in need of His light.
JG