Beyond Actions: The Significance of Motives

Motivation is a powerful force that takes over a situation with great strength and determination. Whether a sporting event, career, relationship, personal or spiritual zeal, it inspires us to work harder, push beyond our limits, and overcome challenges. Insurmountable obstacles become achievable milestones, and the impossible starts to seem possible. Whether sparked by passion, necessity, or aspiration, motivation is the catalyst that turns our intentions into reality. This newfound empowerment leads to success and personal growth.

While our actions are important, the reasons behind them hold even greater significance. Motives are the hidden drivers behind our actions, revealing why we pursue our goals. They shape our decisions, influence our behavior, and determine the authenticity of our efforts. Motives are instrumental in defining our character and who we are, rather than our reputation and what others think of us.

So, while much of “what” we do is driven by motivation, our motives are the “why” behind our efforts. Understanding and aligning our motives with core values not only leads to personal fulfillment but also ensures our actions have a genuine impact. When our motives are sincere and well-intentioned, we build trust and integrity, cultivating meaningful connections with others. We become builders of momentum rather than blockers, achieving our goals and helping others along the way.

When Joyce Meyer stated, “Motives reveal why we do what we do, which is actually more important to God than what we’re doing,” she implied that actions performed with the right intentions are more pleasing and meaningful than those done for show or out of obligation. The purity of our intentions is more valuable than the execution of our actions. The presence of motivation is undeniable, and its absence is just as obvious. Since our motives come from within—a combination of our heart, soul, and mind—we must understand that this is the driving force that helps us reach new heights and transform the ordinary into the extraordinary.

Where should we look for guidance, influence, direction, or help?  The world offers plenty of ways to steer us, but they may not always be the best means to shape our lives. We must continuously examine and realign our motives, guided by spiritual principles and an eternal perspective, to lead a more authentic and fulfilling life. Recognizing the significance and force of motives can guide us to act rightly and become our best selves. Understanding “what moves us” helps ensure that actions are driven by passion but, more importantly, by values with lasting impacts.

Where are you looking when deciding “what moves you?”

(A perspective from "Motivation—What Moves You?" in Diamonds, Deals, and Divine Guidance. Learn more and sign up for these blogs at www.bobbykocol.com.)