What was the motivation to create the world?

Answer 1

Love moved God to create the World.

The Bible says:

1 John 4:8: "God is love."

Revelation 4:11: "Thou art worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honour and power: for thou hast created all things, and for thy pleasure they are and were created."

Answer 2

Why do humans respond emotionally to beautiful sights? And why are painters, sculptors, or musicians motivated emotionally (even beyond monetary need) - to create works of beauty? We are created in the image of God (Genesis ch.5), and God himself is a master artist, who (we intuit) enjoys beauty and has made this beautiful world (see Genesis 1:31). The best human efforts to create beauty are a pale reflection of God's own designs. We respond to them because we are made in the Creator's image.
God made the Earth for people: "He did not create [the earth] simply for nothing," but "formed it to be inhabited" (Isaiah 45:18). He wanted people to exist in order to have someone to love, and to give us an opportunity to achieve godliness. All people are tested concerning their use of free-will. We possess a soul which lives on after the body dies and is held responsible for the person's actions. Anyone who is worthy can merit reward in the afterlife. When the righteous use their free-will to obey God despite His being hidden, they have shown that they deserve His love. Their reward will never cease. But even the undeserving are given the kindness of life in this world, and the lifelong ability to draw near to Him.See also:

God's wisdom seen in His creations

More about God's wisdom

Can you show that God exists