John 8:54 What is your motivation?

If I were trying to make Myself somebody important, it would be a waste of time. That kind of fame is worth nothing. It is the Father who is behind Me, urging Me on, giving Me praise.

Observation 

Jesus is once again being tested by Jewish religious leaders. In this specific example they accuse Him of being demon possessed and exalting Himself. Jesus explains His motivation is from the Father and not from self promotion. But the the religious leaders judge Jesus from the overflow of their own heart and not from truth. It is hard for them to imagine anyone not trying to promote self because they themselves have made a lifestyle out of religious performance.

Application

I love the picture that is painted by Jesus of God, the Father, urging Him on in praise. The closer I walk with Christ the less worldly adulation has a hold on me. On the other hand, I find that I am in need of hearing the voice of God's sweet encouragement more and more. There are times when He uses others to encourage me and then there are times where that encouragement wells up from within. Regardless of the physical source, I know Spiritually this encouragement originated from God, Himself. 

It has become the praise that I live for. I've set my life goal to please Him. I am reminded today who it is that is cheering me on and who it is that I seek to please.

Prayer

Father, You are the One who has changed my heart. You know how often I have pursued my own fame, disguising it with religious performance. But You are ever faithful and have and will continue to change my heart motivation to please You and seek Your approval alone. Thank You Lord.