Here is a truth that has gripped me throughout 50 years of ministry: God weighs what is in your heart, not just what is in your hands.



You can lead a large church, serve on the mission field, or build massive programs. But if your heart is chasing approval or nursing selfish ambition, God sees it. Conversely, He also sees the dreams you never got to fulfill and the sacrifices no one else noticed. And sometimes, He is deeply pleased with your desires even when He doesn’t let you carry them out.

The Temple David Never Built

In 1 Kings 8:17-19, Solomon is dedicating the temple. He pauses to honor his father, David—the man who never got to build it. David wanted to. He gathered the materials and made the plans. But God said no. Yet, God said something remarkable: “Thou didst well that it was in thine heart.”

God was pleased with David’s desire, even though he didn’t allow David to fulfill it.

The Battle is in Your Mind

The real battle of the Christian life is fought in the hidden places of the heart. It’s fought in what you allow to consume your mind when no one is watching. Do you spend your mental energy planning how to honor God? Or are you consumed with how to get ahead or protect your reputation?

I’ve had to wrestle with this myself. I’ve prayed for church growth while secretly wanting the praise of men. That’s an ugly admission, but it’s true. God knows when our desires are wrapped around ourselves instead of Him.

You Might Never Be "Big," and That’s Okay

You don’t have to be famous to please God. You might never preach to thousands or write a bestseller. God is not impressed by the size of your platform; He is moved by the posture of your heart. If you spend your life thinking God-honoring thoughts and desiring His glory above your own, you please Him—even if no one ever knows your name.

David wanted to build the temple. God said no. But God was still pleased. If your desire is rooted in love for Him and not love for recognition, He is pleased.

Check Your Motives

I challenge you today: not to do more, but to think differently. Fill your mind with thoughts of God’s goodness. Dream about how His name can be lifted up, even if yours never is.

You can find more resources on biblical leadership and finding rest in God's grace at waustingardner.com. I also invite you to listen to the Followed by Mercy podcast for deeper dives into these topics.