Motivation Matters
Sometimes it is not what we do but why we choose to do it that counts.
If we live by the Spirit, let us also be guided by the Spirit. Let us not become conceited, competing against one another, envying one another. My friends, if anyone is detected in a transgression, you who have received the Spirit should restore such a one in a spirit of gentleness. Take care that you yourselves are not tempted. Bear one another's burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ. For if those who are nothing think they are something, they deceive themselves. All must test their own work; then that work, rather than their neighbor's work, will become a cause for pride. For all must carry their own loads. Those who are taught the word must share in all good things with their teacher. Do not be deceived; God is not mocked, for you reap whatever you sow. If you sow to your own flesh, you will reap corruption from the flesh; but if you sow to the Spirit, you will reap eternal life from the Spirit. So let us not grow weary in doing what is right, for we will reap at harvest-time, if we do not give up. So then, whenever we have an opportunity, let us work for the good of all, and especially for those of the family of faith. - Galatians 5:25-6:10
If you give to charity does that make you a good person?
Most of us might say it does, especially if we depend upon the charity of individuals to support our cause. So, does it matter why I give?
If I choose to give in order to obtain a credit on my annual income tax, then I am not really the one who is giving, am I?
The money which I would have given to the government is rerouted to the charity, so I am really sowing in someone else's field, right?
Sure, I gave the money, so it was my action that benefited the charity and the charity is immensely grateful for it, but I knew I would be able to reduce my taxes by that amount when I gave it. Does my motivation matter?
In the book, The Seven Faces of Philanthropy by Russ Prince and Karen File, the authors list the following reasons for giving:
Doing good makes sense.
Doing good is God’s will.
Doing good is fun.
Doing good feels right.
Doing good is good business.
Doing good in return.
Doing good is a family tradition.
The good business reason is the tax credit one we have been talking about, but if we look closely, we see a personal benefit in almost all seven of the reasons cited.
So, even though our motivation may be influenced by other factors, including benefits we will receive, there must be a desire deep behind it to help others, and I think that is what matters most.
If I do good, others benefit. But I benefit too. How cool is that?
More to come...