We just finished a wonderful weekend of Kingdom finances, and we ended with the question of Why?. Such a simple, but impactful question. Why do we do anything? Why do we love anything? Why do we receive anything? What is the purpose?
And yet, there may be no better question.
1Corinthians 13 tells us that if we can speak in tongues, prophesy, be generous, have faith that moves mountains, give our bodies over to hardship, but do not have LOVE, it is all meaningless. Basically, if our works and being, do not have the right motivation, they are worthless.
Jesus says in Matthew 7:21-23 that MANY people will prophesy, drive out demons and preform many miracles in His name, and yet in the end He will say to them "I never knew you. Away from me, you evildoers!" So though the act may be Godly, and even done with the power of HIS name, if it is not done from the Father's will, you won't get credit for it.
Jesus came to give the WHY behind the law, so that we would not be blind to the plan of God. He doesn't want blind people, slaves to the law, but obedient children willing to do his will. Children who accept His reasons and get behind the why. He wants to teach us the WHY so that we gain His wisdom and are able to hear more clearly what His perfect will is and act out of that heart posture.
The why of the matter will protect us from persecution and doubt. Is it for me or for God. Psalms 25:21 says "May integrity and uprightness protect me, because my hope, Lord is in you." Integrity is a heart posture. It is doing a thing for the right reason despite the fallout. Its about honor and character.
1Peter 3:16 says "keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander."
Your why matters and allows you to have an answer to your daily life.
Ask yourself today and everyday WHY.
Why do I work here? Why do I pray, read scripture, feed the poor, go to Church? Why does God value me? Why does God forgive, give grace, accept, love, discipline? Why do I watch hockey?
It is easier to stand firm, when you know why you are standing in the first place.
Ask God today, and everyday, what his plan is, and let HIM always be the answer WHY.