What were Reuben’s motives when he spoke up against killing his brother, Joseph?  Nine brothers wanted Joseph — dead!
(Genesis 37:18-20)

Reuben’s words to his brothers after they plotted to kill Joseph:
(NASB) Genesis 37:21-22 “But Reuben heard this and rescued him out of their hands and said, ‘Let us not take his life.’
22 Reuben further said to them, ‘Shed no blood.  Throw him into this pit that is in the wilderness, but do not lay hands on him’ – that he might rescue him out of their hands, to restore him to his father.”

Background to Reuben’s motive:
(NASB) Genesis 35:22 “It came about while Israel (Jacob) was dwelling in that land, that Reuben went and lay with Bilhah his father’s concubine, and Israel heard of it.”

Reuben knew his father was greatly displeased with him; even though nothing was said about what he had done.

Reuben’s ulterior motive to save Joseph’s life so he would have good standing with his father – didn’t happen.

Ulterior motives make a person appear pious, righteous with pure motives.

For what reasons do you say and do certain things?  Is it because of past sins?

When we have ulterior motives we may try to appease another, to appear to be a hero in their eyes.

Many times, ulterior motives do not honor God.  Nor do those with ulterior motives seek God and His forgiveness.

What Reuben should have done, is the same thing you and I should do when we sin, and before our ulterior motives take over.

(NASB) 1 John 1:9 “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and righteous to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.
10 If we say that we have not sinned, we make Him a liar and His word is not in us.”

~ Take it to heart ~

God’s forgiveness is absolutely essential for everyone.

God’s forgiveness changes our ulterior motives.

God’s forgiveness alters our words and actions.