Why do we do the things we do? Do we do them out of habit or tradition? Do we seek attention from others? Do we want to perfect our skill set at whatever we’re trying to get better at? Do we want to be entertained? Do we want to show love for others? Yes to all of the above. The list could literally go on forever. We, as humans, have the tendency to throw life into autopilot and just “do”. Sitting still and being quiet does not come naturally for us. We are on the move doing something! Even if we are sitting still, our minds are usually pouring over the to-do list or the information on the internet we’re literally holding in our hands. All of this “doing” is not necessarily wrong. We do some good things that result in good outcomes. But the question is “Why?” That’s what we need to examine. 

But the Lord said to Samuel, “Don’t judge by his appearance or height, for I have rejected him. The Lord doesn’t see things the way you see them. People judge by outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.” (‭1 Samuel‬ ‭16‬:‭7‬ NLT) This scripture gives us an insight to what matters. Our “why” we do the things we do matters to The Lord. He looks at the heart of a person. Not the organ that pumps blood throughout the body, but your spirit that has intent. You see, we can do all the right things with all the wrong motives. This does not produce the mature growth God wants for us. He looks at our “want to”.  Jesus said, “If you love me, obey my commandments.” (John‬ ‭14‬:‭15‬ NLT) We absolutely do not do anything to earn God’s favor or love. That’s a given. However, when you truly love someone, you want to do what pleases them and brings them joy. When dealing with others, sometimes we need to set our agendas aside. We need to show care and concern for the other person. You may not want to watch the football game with your husband. But because you love him, make some popcorn and tune in. God will bless you for it and it will be a blessing to your husband. Who knows? Next time you want to go shopping, he may willingly come along! This is having a motive to do right by someone even when the activity may not be your idea of a good time. 

Sometimes the Lord is prompting us to do something that we may not want to do. Hopefully our hearts will want to please Him above all else and we will follow through anyway. Some situations in life are not comfortable but God will give you the grace that’s required for any circumstance if your desire is to please Him. But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you (‭Matthew‬ ‭6‬:‭33‬ NKJV). He knows we have personal desires in this life. He just wants to know if His desires for you are the most important. This is something to ponder over. 

Do we really want “Your kingdom come. Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven” (‭Matthew‬ ‭6‬:‭10‬ NKJV) or do we want our will, our way and for Jesus to just cause it to happen? This is a hard one for me, personally. I pray for God to give me the grace I need to truly want what He wants for me above all else. Even if it’s not exactly how I planned it out in my head. He’s so kind, though. He understands our struggles with humanity. He tells us, “Delight yourself also in the LORD, And He shall give you the desires of your heart.” (‭Psalms‬ ‭37‬:‭4‬ NKJV) How amazing is that? He wants us to be happy and fulfilled. He delights in His children living in joy and peace. So, in doing what we do, what are our intentions? As towards us, we know God only has good intentions.

Today’s writer is Brandi Crowe. A hairdresser for over 25 years, she is currently the owner of Brandi Crowe salon in Buford, GA. She loves hiking, a good cup of coffee, and spending time with family and friends. Brandi lives in a custom farmhouse with her husband Robby and cat Harold.