Examining Our Motives: Heart Over Ritual in Faith

Summary

Today, the focus is on examining the motives behind our actions, especially in our walk with God. It’s easy to fall into routines—coming to church, giving, praying, serving—without ever pausing to ask, “Why am I doing this?” The heart of the matter is that God is not interested in mere outward actions or religious performance; He is after our hearts. The church is meant to be both a hospital for the wounded and an armory for the spiritual battle, a place where we come to be healed and equipped, not just to check off religious boxes.

Jesus, in Matthew 6, challenges us to move beyond external righteousness to a deeper, practiced righteousness that flows from a transformed heart. He warns against doing good deeds—giving, praying, fasting—for the applause of others. When our motives are to be seen and praised by people, that fleeting recognition is all the reward we’ll get. Instead, God calls us to do these things in secret, for His eyes alone, trusting that He sees and rewards what is done in faith and humility.

Prayer is not about eloquence, repetition, or trying to get God’s attention. God already knows our needs before we ask. Prayer is about relationship, aligning our hearts with His will, and daily dependence on Him. The model Jesus gives—often called the Lord’s Prayer—teaches us to approach God as our Father, to seek His kingdom first, to trust Him for daily provision, forgiveness, and deliverance from evil.

Jesus also addresses our relationship with material things. He teaches that our treasure reveals our heart. Earthly treasures are temporary and vulnerable, but treasures in heaven—acts of love, generosity, obedience, and sharing the gospel—are eternal. The call is not to abandon wise stewardship, but to ensure our trust and affection are set on God, not on wealth or possessions.

Finally, Jesus invites us to a life free from anxiety about daily needs. If we can trust God with our eternal destiny, how much more should we trust Him with our daily bread? The challenge is to seek first the kingdom of God, making Him not just a priority, but the preeminent focus of our lives. When God is truly first, everything else finds its proper place.

Key Takeaways

- Motives Matter More Than Actions
God is not impressed by outward displays of religion or good works if they are done for human recognition. The true measure of our actions is the motive behind them—whether we seek to glorify God or ourselves. When we do good in secret, for God’s eyes alone, we experience the joy of His approval, which far surpasses the fleeting praise of people. [14:51]

- Practicing Righteousness Flows from Possessing Righteousness
We are not saved by our works, but genuine faith in Christ produces a life marked by good works. These works are not a means to earn God’s favor, but a grateful response to His grace. Practicing righteousness is evidence of a heart transformed by Christ, and it is sustained by daily dependence on Him. [09:21]

- Prayer Is About Relationship, Not Ritual
God already knows our needs and desires, so prayer is not about informing Him or impressing others. It is an invitation to intimacy, to align our hearts with His will, and to express our dependence on Him for daily needs, forgiveness, and protection. The model Jesus gives is a framework for authentic, relational prayer, not a formula for empty repetition. [17:28]

- True Treasure Is Eternal, Not Earthly
Where we invest our time, resources, and affection reveals the true orientation of our hearts. Earthly treasures are temporary and ultimately unsatisfying, but treasures in heaven—acts of love, generosity, and obedience—endure forever. The call is to live with eternity in view, using what we have now to advance God’s kingdom and bless others. [32:17]

- Seeking God’s Kingdom Means Making Him Preeminent
Jesus calls us not just to make God a priority among many, but to give Him preeminence in every area of life. This may mean letting some things go undone so that our lives are unbalanced in favor of God’s purposes. When we seek His kingdom first, trusting Him for our needs, we find freedom from anxiety and discover the true purpose and joy of life. [38:33]

Youtube Chapters

[00:00] - Welcome
[01:56] - Why Do We Do What We Do?
[02:50] - Church as Hospital and Armory
[04:17] - The Call to Perfection and Grace
[06:03] - Created for Good Works
[08:11] - The Heart Behind the Law
[09:21] - Practicing Righteousness
[10:26] - Giving, Prayer, and Fasting: Motives Matter
[12:56] - Jesus’ Repeating Phrases and Motive Contrast
[16:13] - Public vs. Private Prayer
[17:28] - The Model Prayer and Intimacy with God
[25:50] - Legacy: Living for God’s Glory
[30:01] - Treasures on Earth vs. Treasures in Heaven
[32:17] - Sending Treasures Ahead: What Lasts?
[35:10] - Trusting God with Daily Needs
[38:33] - Seek First the Kingdom
[43:16] - Motives, Priorities, and Trusting God

Study Guide

Small Group Bible Study Guide: Motives, Treasure, and Trusting God

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### Bible Reading

- Matthew 6:1-34
(Giving, prayer, fasting, treasures in heaven, and seeking first the kingdom)
- Ephesians 2:8-10
(“For by grace are ye saved through faith…created in Christ Jesus unto good works…”)
- Luke 12:15
(“Take heed and beware of covetousness, for a man’s life consisteth not in the abundance of the things which he possesseth.”)

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### Observation Questions

1. In Matthew 6, what three spiritual practices does Jesus specifically mention, and what warning does He give about how we do them? ([10:26])
2. According to the sermon, what repeating phrase does Jesus use when talking about giving, praying, and fasting? What does this phrase emphasize? ([12:56])
3. What does Jesus say about earthly treasures versus treasures in heaven? How does He describe the difference between the two? ([25:50])
4. In Ephesians 2:8-10, what is the relationship between grace, faith, and good works?

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### Interpretation Questions

1. Why does Jesus place so much importance on the motives behind our actions, rather than just the actions themselves? How does this challenge the way people often approach religion? ([14:51])
2. The sermon says, “Prayer is about relationship, not ritual.” What does it mean to pray with the right motive, and how does this change the way we approach God? ([17:28])
3. Jesus says, “Where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.” What does this reveal about the connection between our priorities and our spiritual health? ([32:17])
4. The pastor mentioned that seeking God’s kingdom is not just about making God a priority, but giving Him preeminence. What’s the difference between these two, and why does it matter? ([38:33])

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### Application Questions

1. The sermon challenged us to ask, “Why am I doing this?” when it comes to church, giving, serving, or praying. Think about a recent good deed or spiritual habit in your life—what was your real motive? Was it for God, or for recognition from others? ([14:51])
2. Jesus teaches us to pray in secret and not for show. How comfortable are you with private prayer? What could you do this week to deepen your personal prayer life, away from the eyes of others? ([16:13])
3. The pastor said, “We are not saved by works, but we should do good works.” What is one good work you feel God is calling you to do—not to earn His favor, but as a response to His grace? ([09:21])
4. When you think about your time, money, and energy, where are you currently investing most of your “treasure”? What is one practical step you could take to invest more in “treasures in heaven” this month? ([32:17])
5. Jesus invites us to trust God with our daily needs and not to be anxious. What is one area of your life where you struggle to trust God for provision? What would it look like to surrender that worry to Him this week? ([35:10])
6. The pastor said, “When we seek His kingdom first, trusting Him for our needs, we find freedom from anxiety.” What is one thing you might need to let go of or leave undone in order to make God preeminent in your life? ([38:33])
7. The church is described as both a hospital and an armory. In what ways do you need healing or equipping right now? How can this group support you in that? ([02:50])

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Closing Prayer Suggestion:
Ask God to search your heart, reveal your motives, and help you seek His kingdom above all else. Pray for trust in His provision and for the courage to live for His approval, not the applause of others.

Devotional

Day 1: True Righteousness Begins in the Heart
God is not impressed by outward appearances or religious actions alone; He looks at the heart and the motives behind what we do. Jesus taught that true righteousness goes beyond simply following rules or behaving a certain way—it is about the transformation of our inner life, our thoughts, and our attitudes. When we recognize our own imperfection and our need for a Savior, we are invited to exchange our sinfulness for Christ’s perfection. This humility and honesty before God is the foundation for a genuine relationship with Him, and it is from this place that our actions should flow. [08:11]

Matthew 5:48 (KJV)
"Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect."

Reflection: In what area of your life do you find yourself focusing more on outward behavior than on your heart’s true motives? Ask God to reveal where He wants to transform your inner life today.

Day 2: Practicing Righteousness with the Right Motives
Jesus warns us not to do good deeds—like giving, praying, or fasting—just to be seen and praised by others. Instead, He calls us to practice these acts in secret, seeking only God’s approval and reward. The true test of our motives is whether we would still do good if no one else noticed. God, who sees in secret, promises to reward those who serve Him sincerely. Let your acts of kindness, prayer, and sacrifice be an offering to God alone, not a performance for people. [14:51]

Matthew 6:1-6 (KJV)
"Take heed that ye do not your alms before men, to be seen of them: otherwise ye have no reward of your Father which is in heaven. Therefore when thou doest thine alms, do not sound a trumpet before thee, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may have glory of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward. But when thou doest alms, let not thy left hand know what thy right hand doeth: That thine alms may be in secret: and thy Father which seeth in secret himself shall reward thee openly. And when thou prayest, thou shalt not be as the hypocrites are: for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and in the corners of the streets, that they may be seen of men. Verily I say unto you, They have their reward. But thou, when thou prayest, enter into thy closet, and when thou hast shut thy door, pray to thy Father which is in secret; and thy Father which seeth in secret shall reward thee openly."

Reflection: Think of a good deed you can do today that no one else will know about—how can you offer it to God alone, seeking only His pleasure?

Day 3: Where Your Treasure Is, There Will Your Heart Be Also
Jesus teaches that our hearts follow our treasures—what we value most will shape our priorities and desires. Earthly treasures are temporary and can be lost, but heavenly treasures are eternal. We are called to invest in what lasts: loving others, giving generously, serving, and sharing the gospel. The way we use our resources reveals what we truly treasure. Let your focus be on building God’s kingdom, not accumulating possessions that will fade away. [32:17]

Matthew 6:19-21, 24 (KJV)
"Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal: But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal: For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also... No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon."

Reflection: What is one way you can shift your focus from earthly treasures to heavenly ones this week—perhaps through generosity, service, or sharing your faith?

Day 4: Seek First the Kingdom of God
Jesus calls us not just to make God a priority, but to give Him preeminence in our lives—seeking His kingdom and righteousness above all else. This means letting God’s purposes shape every decision, even if it means leaving some things undone. When we put God first, He promises to provide for our needs. Life may not always be balanced, but it should be unbalanced in favor of God and His kingdom. [38:33]

Matthew 6:33-34 (KJV)
"But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof."

Reflection: What is one practical step you can take today to make God preeminent in your schedule, your thoughts, or your priorities?

Day 5: Trust God with Your Daily Needs
God knows what you need before you even ask, and He is faithful to provide for you each day. Jesus encourages us not to be anxious about our daily necessities, but to trust in God’s care and provision. If you have trusted God with your eternal destiny, you can trust Him with your everyday concerns. Worry does not add to your life, but faith in God brings peace and confidence that He will meet your needs. [43:16]

Philippians 4:6-7 (ESV)
"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."

Reflection: What is one specific worry or need you can entrust to God in prayer today, believing He will provide for you?

Quotes

But this past week, you've been battling the flesh, the devil, the world. You probably got wounded. You got some scars. You come here. This should be a place where you got bound up, where you got bound up your wounds, right? It's a hospital. [00:02:27]

Christianity is much more than a crutch. It's a whole hospital. All right? But it's also, I believe it's also an armory. You come here to reload your ammunition. Because you're going to go out there again this week and fight the battles. So we come here to reload. We come here to sharpen our swords, right? That's our only offensive weapon is the sword of the spirit, which is God's word. That's why we spend time in this book. [00:03:21]

Be therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect. An impossible command, if you want to do it on your own, isn't it? But God calls us to perfection. However, this perfection comes through Christ. And exchanging our imperfection, our sinfulness, for His perfection. [00:04:23]

When we have the correct view of ourselves, that we are sinful, that we are lost, we are wretched, we cannot save ourselves, we cannot save ourselves, and then we see God's standard of perfection, we realize we have a great need. We have a need for a Savior. And that's when we realize we need to trust God for that salvation. [00:04:52]

You don't get to heaven by your own perfection, by your own works, no matter how hard you try. But Paul continues in verse 10, For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus on two good works, which God hath before ordained, that we should walk in them. So, we are not saved by works, but we should do good works. Right? We should do good works. [00:05:57]

But Jesus said, it goes way deeper than that. It goes beyond the externals. It goes beyond the outward actions and appearances. Right? It goes to the heart. It's what happens in your heart. [00:08:05]

There is righteousness that you possess, but there is righteousness that we should practice. Again, not to earn our way to heaven, but because we get to live for Christ. [00:09:21]

Take heed that ye do not your alms before men to be seen of them. Otherwise, ye have no reward of your Father which is in heaven. [00:10:34]

But when thou doest alms, let not thine left hand know what thy right hand doeth, that thine alms may be in secret and the Father which seeth in secret himself shall reward thee openly. [00:11:00]

But thou, when thou prayest, enter into thy closet. And when thou hast shut thy door, pray to thy Father which is in secret and thy Father which seeth in secret shall reward thee openly. [00:11:30]

Be not therefore like unto them, for your Father knoweth what things ye have need of before you ask him. [00:11:55]

There's a contrast between the right motives and the wrong motives. So what is the wrong motive? Looking for praise of men. Doing things so we can be noticed and then praised by men and recognized. If that's why we do things Jesus said you've already gotten your reward and you're not getting a reward from the Lord. Your reward is the recognition of man. [00:14:25]

He wants to make sure you align yourself to him yes right it's a two way it's a conversation it's not a monologue right fellowship and I mean yes we should pray because Jesus even said he gave us a model prayer right he says this is how you should pray even though God knows everything he knows what you are going to ask you still need to ask the Bible says you have not because you ask not Jesus said ask knock seek. [00:18:28]

It is the faith and the fervency of your prayer that gets to God. [00:19:53]

He starts with our father again if you put yourself in the shoes of his listeners that's a revolutionary concept addressing God back then as our father as your father they had no concept of God as being our father so it speaks of this intimacy right of this relationship you would have. [00:21:09]

It's a day to day dependence on God you remember when the Israelites were going through the wilderness and they gave them manna what were they supposed to do with that they were supposed to gather enough for one day if somebody got greedy and gathered more it got rotten it got spoiled on the Sabbath they had to gather for two days yes but day to day dependence on God right and it's not something extravagant he says give us this day our daily bread we pray that God would meet our basic needs our basic needs. [00:22:16]

You can do good things with the wrong motives right what other things we do i stand here and i i'm sharing god's word what is my motive i constantly have to ask myself that am i doing it so you can say me oh you great job did a good job get this pad on the back right if i'm doing that then i have my reward and hey let's face it it feels good when somebody says you did a great job right people worship on the platform we compliment them they we say you did a good job but again we need to ask ourselves why am i doing it am i doing it so i can hear that from people or am i doing it so god can receive the glory. [00:24:44]

Jesus said where your treasure is there will your heart be also so if my treasure is in the bank if my treasure is in the safe if my treasure is my house then that's where my heart's going to be but if my treasure is in heaven if i'm gathering treasures up in heaven then that's where my heart is going to be that's where my focus will be. [00:31:26]

No the one who dies with the most toys still dies you can't take it with you but you can send it ahead of you you know you can send something to heaven ahead of you treasures. [00:32:32]

Your life is so much more than your bank account your job title your position that's not who you are that's what you do who you are as a child of god who you are as a christian a follower of christ. [00:34:39]

But seek ye first the kingdom of god and his righteousness and all these things shall be added unto you. [00:36:56]

This is not just about making god a priority in your life he needs preeminence in your life nothing else should matter the way god matters to you it's not about having a balanced life sometimes we think okay i have god on this side of the scale and then i'm balancing everything else against god that's not what this is about the kingdom of god seek ye first the kingdom of god and his righteousness nothing else should be as important in my life. [00:39:50]

If i'm shining the light if i'm the lamp they shouldn't be glorifying the lamp they should be glorifying god if i'm doing it with the right motive in the right way the right attitude. [00:43:47]

If you've trusted the lord for your eternal destination if you've confessed if you are professing christians you've trusted god with the greatest things in your life your eternal destiny if you've trusted him with that how can we not trust him with the everyday mundane the provisions for our lives right it's illogical that we don't trust the lord to provide for our needs he is the god who multiplied the bread and the fish he's the one who gave peter and the fishermen the great catch he can just do it do it just like that he can provide for your needs. [00:44:55]

Chatbot

What motivates genuine Christian service and worship?

How does Jesus contrast outward actions with heart intentions?

Why is prayer modeled as a personal conversation with God?