Motivation to Build Upon a Firm Foundation

In 1943, Abraham Maslow introduced a theory of motivation known as the Needs Hierarchy.  Maslow suggested that motivation is based on a set of five specific needs.  The needs hierarchy is based on the requirement that each need within the hierarchy—from the bottom-up— must be filled to motivate one to move to the next level and ultimately achieve maximum growth and potential.  The five-stage hierarchy of needs from the bottom up: (1) physiological needs such as food, drink, shelter, warmth, sex and sleep; (2) safety needs such as law, security, and lack of fear; (3) love and belonging needs such as intimacy, affection, friendship, family, work, and romantic relationships; (4) esteem needs such as mastery, achievement, status, self-respect, and respect from others; (5) self-actualization needs, which includes reaching one’s full potential.  If at any time, one of the layers of the foundation—most often depicted in the shape of a pyramid—is not fulfilled, motivation wanes and Maslow suggested there is a risk that the person may be stuck on one level of the hierarchy permanently. 

The Bible talks about the importance of building upon a firm foundation.  When our foundation is sure, we are equipped to weather any battle and we are motivated to keep running the race.

Luke 6:48 “It is like a person building a house who digs deep and lays the foundation on solid rock. When the flood waters rise and break against that house, it stands firm because it is well built” (New Living Translation).