Connecting Point: The Motivator

Television has been a time for my children, wife, and I to be entertained, and not an exception to the rule was the ABC family show called Wipeout. Contestants were eager to compete on a wild and crazy obstacle course. One of the biggest menaces included “The Motivator,” a large swinging hammer that often caught contestants off guard by forcing them to jump or—in most cases--fall. If you have watched the show, I’m certain you were provided with many laughs, but, personally, I don’t think I would put my body through such punishment. Not worth it.

Ben Bennett made a statement “Our primary motivation for (life) change comes from pain or pleasure.” Both Ben and Josh McDowell provide some helpful insights for dealing with trauma, addictions, and various coping mechanisms in the Free to Thrive series. When we address the pain of our past, we then can make steps forward toward healing. Along those lines, God created us with seven basic longings: Appreciation, Affection, Access, Attention, Affirmation of Feelings, Acceptance, and Assurance of Safety, all of which can be met in healthy ways. Temptation enters our world at that point when we see ourselves in perspective, then the struggle lasts till our dying breath. We might substitute those longings in avenues that are contrary to God’s Will.

First, God has hard-wired us with the freedom of choice. The decisions we make every day can either have negative consequences or positive results. In Genesis chapter 4 we see how this played out in Cain and Able’s lives. Cain’s detrimental choice to murder his brother obviously created multiple consequences for his family and God, so much so, that he said, “My punishment is more than I can bear,” (Genesis 4:13). Pain can be a powerful motivator towards change but only if we embrace true heartfelt change. For a moment consider an unwanted behavior or sin you may struggle with in life. Now, evaluate the possible consequences and how they may influence you, your family, or your friends. Next, look for an avenue that leads away from giving in to any specific temptation.

Second, understand that there are greater rewards ahead when we live within the safety of God’s principles. Pain is not the only motivator. “Thank you, Lord Jesus.” As we learn to thrive in Christ our deepest longings can be fulfilled and met. We can even have quality relationships with our family and friends that bring true joy. Too often we focus on the consequences and forget that our behaviors or actions can have net results that are worthwhile. Imagine having a more vibrant marriage and stronger relationship with siblings, children, or extended family. Quality friendships are possible. Such motivating factors give us hope.

I’m older. I look forward to heaven and the promise of Jesus coming back for his own. But in the same breath, I’m grateful that we can thrive in this life, knowing that God’s mercies are new every day. David rested in the comfort of Jesus: for example (Psalm 23), “You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. Surely goodness and mercy will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever.”

Emotions, and more, maturity, bring us to see that Jesus is the motivation! Have a great week here near the end of our beautiful summer.