Article August 18, 1986 Issue

Motives: beyond success and security

ALICE KINSMAN SMITH

What should be the motive of one's life? Security? Success? Fulfillment? As desirable as these may be, they could signify self-interest. The alternative, altruism, could prove disappointing, too, if one's greatest effort fell far short of meeting others' needs.

So it is important to examine one's motives, to stir thought to determine and improve action. Even the most trivial action is in response to an incentive, a thought. For right action it is essential, then, to start from a right motive. When differing motives contend with each other, our actions become uncertain, disappointing, and often nonproductive.

How can we sort out our motives and arrive at more certain and effective direction for our actions? By listening for God's guidance. Turning to God stills impulsive action, silences willfulness, opens the door to intelligent solutions, and cultivates a deep, moving desire to know God's will.

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