God’s providential care

John 6:27 Do not labour for the food which perishes, but for the food which endures to everlasting life, which the Son of Man will give you, because God the Father has set His seal on Him.' 

The crowd that gathered to see Jesus had mixed motives. Some hoped for a free meal, others were were curious. I wonder what our shapes our motives in respect of gathering for worship.

It is said that we know our true motivation when we see what it is that gravitate towards when we have time to spare.

Pastor Glen Davidson, tells of how he  felt God's call to the ministry while working as a successful businessman. He began taking Bible courses at night, and eventually obtained his Bible school degree. Prior to graduation, he informed his boss that he'd be leaving shortly to work as a pastor in a rural church. Neither the owner of the company or the boss believed it, and they neglected to obtain a replacement for Glen. Eventually Glen told the boss that he really was leaving and they needed to locate a replacement as soon as possible. The owner of the company still doubting Glen's sincerity, instructed Glen's boss, "Offer him a £500.00 raise, and if he takes it, fire him on the spot!" 

For Glen Davidson he had come to learn that, “Wrong motives produce an empty life and a ministry that is not sustainable. Pure motives sustain our passion for God and thus sustain our work for Him—even during the dry, discouraging, or seemingly fruitless seasons of ministry.”  ― Paul Chappell, Sacred Motives: 10 Reasons To Wake Up Tomorrow and Live for God

Lord, there is the same mixture of motives in me; not always pure love, but so often selfishness, weariness, and the hope of relief from anxiety and guilt. You lead me gently so I come before you. O Lord. As the sun rises, may your hope rise up in me. As the birds sing, let your love flow out of me. As the light floods into this new day, may your joy shine through me. I come before you, O Lord And drink in this moment of peace, That I may carry something of your hope, love, and joy today in my heart. Amen.