I was so nervous about this weekend’s service and my sermon. Been so long since I have preached that I was afraid that I would do a really bad job with so many glad I was back and then be a major disappointment to them. I think it turned out alright, at least that is what my wife said and she is usually painfully honest with me. This whole experience of being uptight about this weekend prompted some reflective thinking on my part about motives. What is my motive for teaching the Bible to people each weekend at our services at JBC? I know what I want it to be, but my motives seem to be very slippery! They move and change without me even being aware that they have until some pressure prompts fretting and then all of a sudden I see clearly that I am trying to please the wrong audience. I can see people and hear their words, but it is much more difficult to sense the pleasure of God. I preach and teach for the benefit and edification of those who hear so I know I need to be concerned that  my message is clear and accurate, but I must work hard at keeping God as my source of approval. I know that when my motives are pure He blesses and empowers and I desperately need that. I am determined to be ruthless in my own self reflection and decerning what truly drives me. Help me Lord.