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Week 2 – Discernment

Thursday, Day 9 – Discerning Motives

Scripture: Psalm 139:23–24; Jeremiah 17:9

Discernment is not only about knowing God’s direction—it is also about examining our own hearts. Psalm 139:23–24 invites us to pray: “Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.” Today, we focus on discerning our motives, ensuring that our desire for a ministry property aligns with God’s will rather than personal ambition or comfort.

It’s easy to frame decisions around fear, pride, or convenience. We may pursue a building for status, personal comfort, or approval from others, rather than for the expansion of God’s Kingdom. Fasting and prayer create space to reflect honestly on why we desire certain outcomes. Are we seeking God’s glory, or our own? Are we motivated by love for people, or by personal gain?

Jeremiah 17:9 reminds us that “The heart is deceitful above all things and beyond cure.” Left unchecked, our hearts can justify wrong motives in ways that feel right. Prayer and fasting help us bring hidden motives into the light. The Holy Spirit convicts gently, redirecting our focus from self-interest to God’s purpose.

Discerning motives is also relational. As a church, we must ensure that our collective actions reflect unity and humility. Leaders and congregation members alike should seek alignment in vision and heart. When motives are pure, decisions are easier to trust, and God’s guidance becomes clearer.

Fasting amplifies spiritual sensitivity. Each time we resist a physical craving or worldly comfort, it becomes a mirror for spiritual self-examination. The fast challenges us to surrender not only our bodies but also our desires, agendas, and intentions to God.

Reflection/Application:

  • Pray and ask God to reveal any hidden motives behind your desire for the ministry property.
  • Write down areas where self-interest or fear may be influencing decisions, and commit them to God.
  • Ask the Holy Spirit to purify your heart and align your motives with God’s Kingdom purposes.

Prayer:
Lord, search our hearts and reveal any motives that are not aligned with Your will. Purify our intentions and help us desire only what honors You. Lead us in the way everlasting, and grant us clarity to make decisions that glorify Your Name. Amen.