Why Do I Want It?

This is our B moment. Our moment to be still…to be fed by the Word of God…to be grateful.

Scripture reference: James 4:3 (NIV)

This morning I am asking myself the question – “Why do I want what I want?” Many times I can be crystal clear on what I want, but less clear as to why I want it.

Sometimes my prayer requests have had underlying intentions.  I have learned that it’s worth it to explore the real reasons that I am praying to God for something, so that I can avoid praying with impure motives.

I recently had this experience.  Last year, I released my spiritual memoir – Blues to Blessings:  from Fearful to Faithful.  Since I believed that God inspired me to retell my journey, I would often pray that my book would sell significant copies so that others would become inspired too, especially women.

What I didn’t disclose was that I also wanted to use my book to hush the mouths of my naysayers – those folks whom I believed didn’t believe in me.

I have found that this underlying motivation was staining the very blessing, and gift that God had given to me.

The Words that I use to teach me are, “When you ask, you do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives.” James 4:3 (NIV)

Visit bmoments.org and share this reflection, because others desire to be inspired.

So today, pray from a pure place, and watch how God responds.