“Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, so now, not only as in my presence but much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure.” Philippians 2:12–13
What comes to mind when you hear the word obedience? Do you think “have-to” or “get-to”?
I often equate obedience with a “have-to” mindset. When I feel that pressure, something in me pushes back. I can be like a child who wants to “do it myself,” reclaiming control and choosing my own way. But Scripture calls me to put away childish things. And yet the child in me can be quite loud sometimes.
How often I have looked at Christ through an earthly filter of my desire to “do it myself.” Without thinking about implications, I have diminished who and what I am obeying. I’ve made my faith walk about my own “do-ability.”
In his letter to the Philippians, Paul presents a different picture of obedience than the one I often carry. Obedience is neither a burdensome “have to” nor a self-sufficient “I can do it myself.” As I follow Him, He shapes my desires and provides the grace I need for each step.
I’m so thankful that our mighty God is patient while I work out my salvation. In my own strength, I rush into a day without intentional time with my Savior. My pride surfaces as I think too highly of myself as I check off my to-do list. Humility is in short supply when I get cut off in traffic or disagree with my spouse.
So, I wonder what would be different if I adopted the “get-to” mindset?
- I get to walk in obedience to the God who created me and knows everything about me.
- I get to come into His presence and worship Him.
- I get to find comfort in His arms.
- I get to hold on to hope only He can give.
- I get to abide in His words of influence, instruction, and insight.
It is the joy of our faith that causes us to obey. Hebrews 12:2 says, “Jesus … for the joy that was set before him endured the cross.” He endured for the joy of obeying His Father.
Paul tells the church in Philippi, “Not only in my presence but much more in my absence” (v. 12). He’s essentially saying, do the right thing when I’m not with you, like you would when we were together. Allow God to work in you, for His good pleasure.
The long and short of it: our obedience pleases God.
His pleasure is our joy. Our joy is to obey His call. We “get to” do life with Him. Let’s obey with joy because He obeyed first.
Prayer: Lord, I am humbled by Your willingness and true obedience to go to the cross for me with joy. Slow me down, Lord. Cause me to focus on all that I “get to” do because I am Your child. Remind me often it is You who works in me for Your good pleasure. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Want More?
Read Deuteronomy 6:4–9. Notice the action words. Who does the action? How and when are these commands taught? Why do these commands matter?
