What is my motivation for helping those in my family?
I think when I was younger and, sadly, even throughout many of my teen and young adult years it has been to hear a "Well-done." I enjoy recognition and proving my worth.
A very interesting thought hit me recently: Do I serve for the person or for the praise? Seriously, though, do I sacrifice my time and energy in order to make someone's life easier because I love them or because I want to get the praise I know will emanate from their lips after the fact?
I think this feeling surfaces when you are a people-pleaser and when the duty you're doing is for someone close to you -- someone whose praise means a lot to you.
I think also that these two feelings can be intertwined at times. But the difference surfaces when you perform the service regardless of whether that person consistently verbally recognizes your efforts or not. Also, you will continue to do so even when you know that person will not notice that you are the one who's accomplished this task on his or her behalf.
Feelings make a difference too. No, I'm not suggesting you only help other people that you love when you feel like it or when you can't think of anything else you'd rather do with your time so you might as well help someone in your family out. That's not what I'm talking about at all.
What I'm referring to is the desire to make someone's life easier. The desire to do so which produces the will power to do so. Praying for a servant's heart enables you to see people's lives and duties in a different perspective -- as an opportunity to see what they need and to feel that need. That comes from God.
Furthermore, just like the initial feeling or motivation is different so is the resulting feeling. You will be satisfied that you were able to help out, even if the person shows absolutely no verbal gratitude.
Rewards in heaven, right? But also the ability to make a difference just by noticing needs and acting. Do I serve for the person or for the praise? God knows our heart. Do we?
Psalm 139:23-14
23 Search me, O God, and know my heart;
Try me and know my anxious thoughts;
24 And see if there be any hurtful way in me,
And lead me in the everlasting way.
