What Motivates You?

“Let a man regard us in this manner, as servants of Christ, and stewards of the mysteries of God. In this case, moreover, it is required of stewards that one be found trustworthy. But to me it is a very small thing that I should be examined by you, or by any human court; in fact, I do not even examine myself. For I am conscious of nothing against myself, yet I am not by this acquitted; but the one who examines me is the Lord. Therefore do not go on passing judgment before the time, but wait until the Lord comes who will both bring to light the things hidden in the darkness and disclose the motives of men's hearts; and then each man's praise will come to him from God.”
1 Cor. 4:1-5

Since the believer’s judgment will be for the determination of rewards and not for his or her sins, how do we live so as to lay up treasures in heaven?

First is motivation. “...wait until the Lord comes who will both bring to light the things hidden in the darkness and disclose the motives of men's hearts; and then each man's praise (rewards) will come to him from God.” 1 Cor. 4:5

What is the inner motivation for our works? The Scriptures tell us that all work should come from the wellspring of a heart that seeks to bring honor and glory to Christ Jesus: “...whatever you do, do all to the glory of God” 1 Cor. 10:31. All of our work, service, and activities should be done to please God, not bring attention or praise to ourselves.

The second factor is faithfulness. When the three servants in Matthew 25 were called to account for the use of their talents, their master responded in this way to two of them; “...‘Well done, good and faithful slave; you were faithful with a few things, I will put you in charge of many things, enter into the joy of your master.’” Matthew 25:21

Our motivations and faithfulness to the Master is our daily tasks lay a firm foundation for future rewards.