Daniel Chapter 11. No really! What are my motives?
This chapter reveals the coming of many wars between primarily the North and South but also mentions involvement of the Kings in the East. Many kings will rise and many will fall. Some family members will betray other family members because of their desire for power. There's always the desire for more power by the kings and there's always a great pride involved while rejecting God. False gods are glorified while God is rejected and the people are greatly encouraged to worship false gods but not the Almighty God.
There are a faithful few who choose not to reject the Lord God, but as a result they face persecution. They are: killed by the sword, or burned at the stake, captured, or all their belongings are stolen from them.
Colossians 3:17 reminds us that whatever we say or do should be done for the glory of God. Sadly, the kings in this chapter were always about gaining power for their Glory and filled with great pride. God was always neglected and rejected!
What about us? In our workplace, or church ministry, or wherever, deep inside are we trying to become bigger and better? if you said “YES” then that's great. I see nothing wrong in trying to grow and expand. The problem isn't the act or desire to grow and expand. The problem is the desire to grow and expand for self and for one's own Glory rather than for the glory of God.
“Look what I did!” Vs “Look at what God did through me!”
When we do succeed in growth and expansion there will be those who compliment us. If so, that's great. We all need to be complimented. But when the goal becomes for the compliment because we want people to recognize our power versus God's power then beware.
Examine the secrets of your heart. Is it really all about the Lord or do we sugar coat our actions with spiritual words while deep in our hearts it's really all about our power and getting the glory?