For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them. – Ephesians 2:10
Motivation, according to Psychology Today, is one of the driving forces behind human behavior. It may spring from the most fundamental needs, such as food and shelter, or higher needs for love and belonging, or from negative pressures, such as fear and danger. Sources of motivation, internal or external, drive a person toward an anticipated reward, relief, or rescue.
What are the things that motivate you? What actions do you engage in that grow from those motivations? In Ephesians, the apostle Paul declares that followers of Jesus are motivated by their relationship with the Savior. Jesus was frequently motivated by compassion (Mark 6:34). He saw a need, and He met it. Granted, His actions involved the miraculous. You may not be a miracle worker but you can still show compassion.
Today’s verse says you were created for good works for which God has already prepared for you. You don’t need to conjure them up for yourself—just be obedient to His calls for you to engage every day. Let empathy guide your motivations and compassion direct you to action. Pray for members of Congress to be motivated for the good of the country in the direction of the legislation they introduce, debate, and vote upon.
Today’s Verse: Ephesians 2:10
For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.
All Scripture quotations and audio are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
Recommended for further reading: Psalm 139:1-6, 23-24
O Lord, you have searched me and known me!
2 You know when I sit down and when I rise up;
you discern my thoughts from afar.
3 You search out my path and my lying down
and are acquainted with all my ways.
4 Even before a word is on my tongue,
behold, O Lord, you know it altogether.
5 You hem me in, behind and before,
and lay your hand upon me.
6 Such knowledge is too wonderful for me;
it is high; I cannot attain it.
23 Search me, O God, and know my heart!
Try me and know my thoughts!
24 And see if there be any grievous way in me,
and lead me in the way everlasting!
All Scripture quotations and audio are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), copyright © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
