People are motivated, or moved to action, by many different things—to provide for their family, to make someone close to them proud, or to accomplish a difficult goal. If our pursuit seems to us noble enough, our motivation seems justified. However, at the root of what motivates us is often self-centeredness. Unlike our neighbors or our friends who often only see our outward actions, God is the one who examines our hearts, our motivation (1 Samuel 16:7; Proverbs 16:2; Jeremiah 12:3; 17:10). The Bible tells us that our motivation should not be selfish gain or seeking approval based on our own merits; rather, our motivation should come from God and a desire to obey and honor Him.
Motivation is defined as “that which moves one toward an action; that which changes, provokes, or impels our very being.” The Bible has a great deal to say about motivation. The motivation of Christians is different from that of unbelievers. For one thing, our sense of motivation or inspiration comes from God, not from the things of the world.
The Bible is an amazing source of motivation, encouragement, and inspiration. We can use Bible quotes to keep us going when we feel like giving up – whether you need motivation to wake up in the morning, face a hard task or challenge, start a new job, or simply struggling with being overwhelmed. Scripture can motivate us to live righteously and courageously knowing the true love and power of God.
“Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labor is not in vain.(1 Corinthians 15:58)
“But Jesus looked at them and said, “With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.” (Matthew 19:26)
Do not be deceived: God is not mocked, for whatever one sows, that will he also reap. For the one who sows to his own flesh will from the flesh reap corruption, but the one who sows to the Spirit will from the Spirit reap eternal life.”(Galatians 6:7-8)
For am I now seeking the approval of man, or of God? Or am I trying to please man? If I were still trying to please man, I would not be a servant of Christ.”(Galatians 1:10)
“Commit your way to the Lord; trust in him, and he will act.”(Psalm 37:5)
“Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him.”(James 1:12)
“I always put the Lord in front of me; I will not stumble because he is on my right side.”(Psalm 16:8)
“I’ve commanded you to be brave and strong, haven’t I? Don’t be alarmed or terrified, because the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”(Joshua 1:9,)
“So what are we going to say about these things? If God is for us, who is against us?”(Romans 8:31)
“But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength; they will fly up on wings like eagles; they will run and not be tired; they will walk and not be(Isaiah 40:31)
“Throw all your anxiety onto him, because he cares about you.”(1 Peter 5:7)
“We receive whatever we ask from him because we keep his commandments and do what pleases him.( 1 John 3:22)
“And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.”(Hebrews 10:24–25)
“Give thanks to the Lord because he is good, because his faithful love lasts forever!”(Psalm 107:1)
“Stay awake, stand firm in your faith, be brave, be strong. Everything should be done in love.”(1 Corinthians 16:13-14)
