Ulterior Motives

Read Genesis 30:9–13

Reflection

If Leah had had social media, you can bet she would have been posting about all the children she was having for Jacob. It isn’t wrong to be celebrating your success or telling others how much joy you are experiencing. However, there can be some motivation for celebrating that goes beyond simple joy. This is clear with Leah, who assumed that her success would make her look better to others. Her drive to give Jacob children appeared to have become a competition to earn her favour and status with others.

Think about what you share in the workplace, on social media or during a meal with a mate. We tend to talk about our glory moments a lot more than we talk of our failures – and, even then, we choose what "junk" we want to share. Of course, you will pursue sporting achievements, travelling, higher-status jobs and better homes or cars for your own joy. However, pride can become an undertone that is tricky to keep in check when we have done well.

The difference between being proud of ourselves and boasting is to whom we are ultimately giving glory. All of the good we have done has really been given to us. Be proud of what you have achieved, but be prouder of the One who gave you the means to achieve it. Keep these words of Scripture close to your heart: “But let him who boasts boast in this, that he understands and knows me, that I am the Lord who practises steadfast love, justice, and righteousness in the earth. For in these things I delight, declares the Lord”, (Jeremiah 9:24, ESV).

Consider and Pray

What things have you achieved lately that you are proud of? Thank the Lord for giving you the ability to achieve those things, and ask for forgiveness where you have bragged in order to look better than others. Accept that true confidence comes from knowing the Lord and being known by Him.