When Jesus says to “take heed,” we are wise to do so! While Jesus never sinned, He thoroughly understood people and was well aware of their shortcomings. He realized that people, even well meaning ones, have mixed motives. It is tragic enough when we purposefully commit evil deeds. However, there is something deeply unsettling about having our actions that were intended for good, corrupted by sin.
Sometimes we make sacrifices to help people but then spoil our effort by allowing pride to herald our noble deeds. Or we take the high road and forgive someone his trespass, but then ruin that good deed by continually reminding him of our gracious act.
Even wicked people are capable of doing good, under certain circumstances! But truly righteous people behave uprightly because they are godly people. Their actions stem from a noble character and pure motives.
Sadly, many people don’t know themselves well. They don’t detect their hidden motives. They assume the best of themselves even while it is clear to others that they are acting selfishly or arrogantly. Jesus cautioned us to take heed to our motives, especially when doing something recognized to be good. So, what is motivating you?