Many hidden motivations drive our choices everyday. And often we settle for surface explanations for why we do what we do. But the path of maturity is discovering our deeper why and intentionally keeping it connected to the larger story God is telling.
For instance, in school we were often taught we needed to make good grades to eventually get a good job. And a “good job” might have meant a high earning potential or simply our own personal happiness. To be sure, there’s nothing wrong with either of these pursuits. But they remain shallow when we don’t take our considerations deeper.
What is the purpose of earning good money and even securing financial peace? And is our own self-interest the highest good we should be aiming for?
All too often we confuse means and ends, or otherwise shortchange what our true end should be.
For example, the point of financial security is not just to get out of debt, not have to worry about bills, and to retire comfortably on our own timeline. We’re wise stewards of our money to build wealth and to advance God’s kingdom in the world. Our deeper why must ultimately be seeking God and his kingdom.
Likewise, finding the work that puts a smile on our face and makes us come alive is not just about the pursuit of our own happiness. Rather, we’re committed to finding our sweet spot to be the most effective in bringing more life and goodness into the world. Our deeper why goes beyond our self to remain anchored in God himself.
Certainly, at times we must give up our pursuit when it’s clearly not aligned with who God has called us to be. But often our challenge is simply going deeper – understanding that the desires of our heart are our personal paths toward glorifying God in everything we do.
Don’t settle for the well-meaning but shallow objectives of this life. Take your why deeper and discover how the desires of your heart are to connect with the larger story God is telling.
