Without Hidden Motives

Scripture: Matthew 5:16 (NIV) – "In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven."

As Christians, we are called to serve others, reflecting the love of Christ in all that we do. But what is the true motive behind our service? It’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking that service should come with a hidden agenda—perhaps with the hope of converting others or gaining recognition. However, true Christian service is about offering help out of love, not with the goal of changing someone’s belief system or gaining something in return. This devotional explores the heart behind service and how, as followers of Christ, we are called to serve others selflessly and with pure intentions.

Devotional:

When we think about serving others, the world often teaches us that everything should have a purpose or a goal—sometimes a personal or selfish one. Yet, when it comes to Christian service, our motive should never be about getting something in return. Jesus’ life is the ultimate example of selfless service, giving His life not for His own benefit, but for the good of others. He did not perform miracles, heal the sick, or serve the marginalized to win followers or convert people to Christianity. He did it because of the love in His heart for others.

Matthew 5:16 tells us, "Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven." When we serve others, it’s not about us—it’s about them, and about bringing glory to God. Our actions should point others to the love of Christ, but not because we are trying to convert them or achieve something for ourselves. If our primary goal in serving others is to convert them to Christianity, we risk turning service into a transaction, rather than an act of genuine love.

This truth can be challenging because we often want to see results from our actions. We may want to convert others or even convince them to adopt our beliefs. However, our service should not be contingent upon others’ responses. Christ calls us to love others unconditionally, whether or not they ever choose to follow Him. When we serve, it should come from a heart full of Christlike love, desiring only to bless others, with no hidden agenda.

One of the most beautiful aspects of Christian service is that it mirrors the love of Christ. He served not for His own gain but out of the overflow of love that He had for others. We, too, are called to serve in the same way—freely and without expectation. As we do this, we reflect God’s love and grace to the world. And in doing so, we allow God to work in ways that only He can, touching hearts and transforming lives.

Closing Prayer:

Heavenly Father, thank You for the example of Christ’s selfless love. Help me to serve others with the same heart of compassion and love, not with hidden motives, but simply because I want to reflect Your love in the world. Teach me to serve without expecting anything in return, and to give of myself freely, as Christ gave of Himself for me. May my service bring glory to You and be a true reflection of Your love. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Reflection:

Consider a recent act of service you’ve done. Was there any part of you that hoped for a particular outcome, such as a response or a conversion? How can you reframe your motives for service to be more about showing Christlike love rather than seeking results? How can you serve today without expecting anything in return, and simply bless others with no agenda?