4 end-games nourish our fleshly motivations.
1. We seek to be recognized and admired : Glory
2. We seek to be in control : Power
3. We seek to have the means to acquire what we want : Riches
4. We seek to have fun in what we do : Pleasure
Nothing is inherently wrong with seeking these things, but far too often, these needs become our main drive and focus. We then forget what the source of ultimate satisfaction is - which ultimately leads to bad choices.
It's fascinating for me to see how Grace is the source of all of those needs.
How Grace is the source of our glory: Pr 21:21, 2Cor 1:12, 2Thess 1:12, Jer 9:23-24
How Grace is the source of our power and strength: Ps 86:15-16, 89:17, Heb 13:9, 2Tim 2:1, 2Cor 12:8-9, 1Pet 5:10
How Grace is the source of our riches: Pr 22:1, 1Cor 1:4-5
How Grace is the source of our pleasure: Acts 11:23, 2Cor 9:8, (Comfort 2Thess 2:16-17, Heb 4:16)
Paul actually defines himself by that one simple thing. After living a full life of ministry, having much to boast about, he tells us what he wants on his proverbial tombstone: 1Cor 15:10
I seek approval from who ? Grace gives it
I seek pleasure from where ? Grace supplies it
I want to accomplish what on my own ? Grace provides what I need to do it
I want to brag about what ? Grace did it all
I want to get out of my funk how ? Grace is the way
Grace. It's all I need.