Except when we are hindered by causes beyond our control, we basically do what we want to do. We use our time the way we want; we use our money the way we want; we associate with the people we want to be with; we meditate on things we want to think about. This simply says that we are free moral agents with the ability to choose. Our choices are made on the basis of our faith. Some who see a black cat run across the road will turn around and go home. Why? Because of their belief that it will bring them bad luck. Actions come from feelings which result from beliefs.

The motive (inner drive) has been called the “want to” within man. What are some things that cause one to have a good motive? First, we must believe that we are made in the image of God (Gen. 1:26,27). Second, we must realize the consequences of our choices. God allows us to choose our actions, but not the consequences of those actions. Sin produces separation from God and other consequences, whether we desire those or not. Third, we are motivated to do right because of our love for God. “We love Him because He first loved us” (1 Jn. 4:19). We are motivated by respect for self and love and fear of God.