Having the right motives in the Christian life
Nassi shares a message on having the right motives in Christian life and ministry. She explores the theology of intention. Using the selection of King David as a framework, it argues that God bypasses external stature to weigh the heart’s motives. The sermon warns that “wrong “Niyat”—seeking ego or validation—hinders prayer and causes spiritual burnout, urging a return to God-pleasing service.
The sermon centers on 1 Samuel 16:7, where God instructs Samuel not to judge by outward appearance or height, asserting that while humans look at the surface, “the Lord looks at the heart.” This is illustrated through the narrative of David, the youngest son of Jesse, who was overlooked by his own family but chosen by God because of his internal alignment and “heart after God.”
Supporting texts include:
- Psalm 51:10-12: David’s plea for a pure heart and a steadfast spirit.
- Proverbs 16:2: The reminder that while a person’s ways seem pure to them, motives are weighed by the Lord.
- 1 Corinthians 3:9-15: The metaphor of building on the foundation of Christ with materials (gold, silver, hay, straw) that will be tested by fire to reveal their true quality.
Congregation response
Nassi challenges the congregation to move beyond “performative service” and conduct a rigorous audit of their internal motivations (Niyat).
Key Action Points:
- Self-Interrogation: Ask “Why am I doing this?” before acting or speaking. Identify if motives are rooted in hidden anger, a desire for revenge, or seeking human validation.
- The “Invisible Service” Test: Evaluate if you would continue your sacrifices, service, or hard work if no one ever praised you or if others actively criticized you.
- Surrender to the Holy Spirit: Invite the Holy Spirit to control all areas of life, acknowledging that human effort alone leads to exhaustion and unanswered prayer (James 4:3).
- Focus on the Eternal: Shift priority from earthly reputation to pleasing God, recognizing that “the eyes of the Lord range throughout the earth to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to Him.”