Our Motives MatterSample

Day 2: Motive in the Mirror

Scripture: James 4:3 (NIV) – “When you ask, you do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, that you may spend what you get on your pleasures.”

Prayer is powerful—but not when it’s self-centered. James reminds us that God not only hears our words but also examines the heart behind them. Sometimes, the reason our prayers go unanswered isn’t because God is unwilling—it’s because our motives are misaligned.

We often come to God asking for provision, promotion, healing, or breakthrough. These are not bad things in themselves. But God looks past the request to the reason. Are we asking for success so we can glorify Him—or to build our own name? Are we asking for abundance so we can give and serve—or to indulge our comforts?

This verse isn’t meant to shame us—it’s an invitation to deeper intimacy. God desires relationship, not manipulation. He wants our prayers to be an extension of His heart. When our motives are rooted in His purposes, our prayers align with His will, and power is released.

Like a mirror, prayer reflects the condition of our desires. If we dare to slow down and listen, the Spirit will often show us where our motives have become clouded by pride, insecurity, or selfishness. The beauty of grace is that God doesn't just expose impure motives—He cleanses them.

Today, before you ask God for anything, ask Him to examine your heart. Be honest with yourself. Why are you praying this prayer? Invite the Holy Spirit to purify your intentions so your requests may bring Him glory and bless others.

Prayer:
Father, I don’t want to come to You with selfish desires hidden in spiritual words. Search me, Lord, and reveal where my motives are impure. Align my heart with Yours so that my prayers reflect Your will. Make me more like Jesus—who always prayed, “Not My will, but Yours be done.” Amen.