The most accurate check of our motives is best determined by who will receive the glory for the decisions we make. As Jesus foretold of His coming death, He said, “Now the time has come for the Son of Man to enter into his glory” (John 12:23). His death would precede His resurrection – a resurrection leading to the display of His glory.

The obedience of Jesus led Him to the Cross. Our obedience will lead us to issues in our lives that we need to put to death so that the glory of Jesus Christ can be seen in our lives.

Later in chapter 12 of John, the people were struggling with unbelief. Isaiah the prophet was quoted. “Isaiah was referring to Jesus when he said this because he saw the future and spoke of the Messiah’s glory” (vs.41).

Isaiah was speaking into the future referring to the very people Jesus was addressing that day. The prophet spoke about the blind eyes and hardened hearts of those who refused the Lord’s message. Something was blinding their hearts and hardening their hearts. The reason for the blindness and hardness was revealed a few verses later, “For they loved human praise more than the praise of God” (vs.43). 

For any of us to be used by God for His glory, we must be willing to put to death our need for human praise and wait for the praise of God. Some of that praise will not come in this life. The patience that will allow us to wait for the Lord’s praise only comes to those who seek His affirmation above all others.

Regarding our choices today, a question must first be answered before we can rightly respond or act, “Will this bring glory to God?” The answer to that question will determine the condition of our hearts. It will narrow down our responses to the choices we are asked to make and reveal whose praise we are seeking and who will get the glory for our obedience.