Why We Do What We Do

We are reading this morning of the jostling around of Paul (www.lifejournal.cc).  It somewhat reminds me of the kangaroo court that Christ meandered through in the night before his crucifixion.  Everybody is thinking something needs to be done but they sure don't want to be the ones to make it happen. 
What got my attention this morning, however, is a comment that Paul makes to Ananias, the high priest.
Acts 23: 2-5- And the high priest Ananias commanded those who stood by him to strike him on the mouth. ³Then Paul said to him, "God is going to strike you, you whitewashed wall! Are you sitting to judge me according to the law, and yet contrary to the law you order me to be struck?" ⁴Those who stood by said, "Would you revile God’s high priest?" ⁵And Paul said, "I did not know, brothers, that he was the high priest, for it is written, 'You shall not speak evil of a ruler of your people.'" 
Notice why Paul corrected himself for rebuking Ananias.  It was not because of the high priest's status or power.  It was simply because he was one who was in authority.   It was disrespectful.  It was not about being concerned with what was going to happen to him as a consequence or what he might face.  It was simply wrong for him to be rude to those in authority.  It was not godly.  He was quoting the law out of the book of Exodus.  I got to thinking about motive.  Why do we do what we do?
Do we give to God out of obedience and reliance upon Him as the supplier of our needs or do we give to win some type of heavenly sweepstakes of blessings beyond what we can foresee?
Do we go to church to receive heavenly pins along with our crown that let all know how faithful we have been or do we go simply to be faithful?
Do we go to church to receive earthly nods that our own community may crown us Christian with all the entitlements that may bring to us to be accepted and approved?  Or is it because we love Jesus?
Do we share a testimony for Christ to rack up points in our heavenly account or do we share because Christ has done so much for us, it is the least that we can do yet the very thing He asked?
Do we pray diligently to get our will done in heaven or to submit ourselves to His Will on earth?
Are we kind to people to win their favor or are we kind to show the overflowing love of the Lord?
Do we help others to get a pat on the back or do we help others to show the overflowing love of the Lord?  Why do we do what we do?  Our motive may be just as important, if not more so, than our participation in an action that would appear to be done just to please the Lord.  
Do the right thing today...and do it for the right reason.  And have a good one!