It's interesting how motivation in my life has changed. For much of my life 'Praise' was a huge motivator. I recall a favorite childhood book was "Mike and His Steam Shovel" (at least I think this was the name). I would picture myself in this book as the characters, Mike and his steam shovel, worked harder and harder with the more people there were to watch, and that gave them praise. Yeah, I know... this may be cause for some serious psycho therapy. Seeking praise has it's fixes, but it has even greater pitfalls.
In my scripture reading today (Luke, chapter 4) I read of Jesus being tempted, of his teachings in the synagogue, and his limited ministry in his home town. I notice how he was praised over and over again, but he did not seem motivated to do what he did because of, or for, this praise. In fact, in his home town the people went from praising him to trying to push him off a cliff. What I take from this, and based on my own experience, is when my motivation is the praise of others then I seek to serve their will... not my own, and certainly not Gods.
Life's maturing process has helped me to understand the huge unmet needs that have existed, and some that still exist, in my life. These unmet needs are very powerful in a person's life and can cause us to do things that are not wise.
I have discovered that God's love heals me from the inside out. God has placed me in environments to help me grow with his love. I trust God's love in my life... He loves me just as I am... and He loves me too much to leave me where I'm at. I no longer have to seek the praise of others to feel loved. I can give praise because I am loved.
MEPASTORMIKE
