Our Motives in Ethical Decisions
Does it matter what an individual’s motive is when he or she acts? Think about it. You happen to witness a woman getting mugged and at the same time realize that your boss is standing some distance away, what do you do? You normally avoid involvement. Yet, knowing that your boss is observing the situation you decide to subdue the aggressor. You protect the lady, return her purse, and aid in the capture of her mugger. You are declared a hero. Your boss applauds your efforts and recognizes your selflessness at an office party.
In light of your self-promotion, which motivated you to get involved, were your actions truly ethical? What you did was good, but your motives made an honorable act an act of selfish ambition. You acted selfishly rather than ethically.
No matter what ethical dilemma you face your motive in choosing one action over another does matter. If you avoid an affair because you fear the loss of your children in a nasty divorce, then you are not acting ethically. Avoiding the affair was right but it was improperly motivated. What motive produces ethical thoughts and actions?
The proper motive is God’s glory. Matthew 5:16 states, ‘Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven.’ Later, 1 Corinthians 10:31 instructs, ‘. . . whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.’ When you act, God’s glory should be your concern.
Neither self preservation nor self promotion should fuel our desire to be a faithful spouse, protect our fellow citizens, or any other ethical act. Our love for God should be the fuel. We should desire to please Him. Our first thought should be, ‘what would bring God the most glory?’ The Bible provides the answer to this question.