Our Motives MatterSample

Day 5: Sincere, Not Strategic

Scripture: Romans 12:9 NIV – “Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good.”

There’s a difference between acting loving and actually loving. Paul reminds us that real love is sincere—without pretense, manipulation, or hidden agendas. It’s not a strategy to gain influence or favor. It's not a tool to get people to like us or open doors for us. It’s a pure motive, flowing from a heart transformed by Christ.

Sincerity is rare in a world of curated images and calculated moves. But God calls His people to live differently—to love without strings, to serve without needing a spotlight, and to give without expecting a return. This kind of love is radical because it’s real.

Jesus didn’t love strategically. He didn’t choose the most influential or popular people to be His disciples. He didn’t serve others to boost His status. He healed, embraced, forgave, and taught out of a heart full of sincere love. Even when it was inconvenient. Even when it cost Him everything.

Sincere love hates what is evil—especially falsehood and hypocrisy—and clings to what is good, even when it’s uncomfortable. That includes examining our own hearts. Are we kind because it benefits us? Are we helping others to feel good about ourselves? Or are we moved by the Spirit, seeking only to reflect the love we’ve received?

Today, invite God to search your motives. Ask Him to help you love sincerely—not for attention, not for control, but because you belong to Him. Let your love reflect the truth, depth, and purity of His own.

Prayer:
God, teach me to love with sincerity. Help me to let go of selfish or strategic motives. Purify my heart so that I may reflect Your truth in both word and action. Let my love be genuine, my service pure, and my life a testimony of Your grace. In Jesus’ name, Amen.