Our mini-van has had a squeaky brakes problem of late. That is irritating to say the least. However, Daniel, our six-year-old had a special perspective on the situation. He was concerned that we get the brakes fixed because of burglars!
   You can imagine that I was a bit confused when he first told me this. I questioned him until I could understand. You see, with the brakes squeaking, when we drive into our driveway, the squeak announces our approach. Daniel was concerned that a burglar in our house would have advanced warning of our arrival and beat it out the back door. Then we wouldn't be able to catch him!
   Our motives for doing things vary with our perspective. Daniel's perspective and motives were sure different than mine. The squeak made my teeth itch! Ask yourself some motives and perspective questions. Why don't you go certain places? Why don't you say certain things? Why do you read your Bible? Why do you go to church or a Bible study? What spurs you on to do what you do?
   Paul gave a reason for living a Godly life in service of Jesus Christ when he said we will receive "an imperishable" reward (verse 25). Paul chose excellence knowing that it means work (verses 24 & 27), self-control (verse 25), and focus (verse 26). What's your motivation? Victory only comes through choosing the way to victory. It will not come without effort.
   Choose to be a team player!

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All Scripture references are from the New American Standard Version unless otherwise noted.