Therefore, my beloved, as you have always obeyed, so now, not only as in my presence but much more in my absence, (Philippians 2:12 ESV)
Fear Not… Then Obey
I was tasked with installing a hot water heating system in an old house as part of a remodeling project. My job was to place heaters in each room, determine copper pipe placement, and install the entire thing.
I had been trained by experienced plumbers. I knew pretty much what to do. But I was nervous. I was unsure I would have the stamina, skills, and knowledge to complete the job satisfactorily.
But I got to work. Each day, I did more. Gradually, the nervousness disappeared. I was no longer afraid.
And when I was done with fear, I did not change my approach to plumbing. The lack of fear did not divert me from what I knew had to be done… step by step.
It might have, though. I might have thought, now that I was not afraid, that I could come up with a BETTER way to install the heaters. I might have, in my relaxed state, decided to improvise, or cut corners, or take shortcuts.
But thankfully, I did not.
After the fear, I did what I knew was right.
We Christians have the same opportunity daily. When we are afraid, sometimes we respond with a focus on obedience, righteousness, and faithfulness. Not believing that such obedience is enough for salvation. Such obedience is, instead, the result of our focus on Him.
But after the fearful situation is resolved, we might slack off. We might stop thinking about what God has said to do. We might care less about doing His will. We might think we need something new, and more exciting, and more modern.
But God’s commands are the same whether we are afraid or at peace. Jesus summarized God’s commands by telling us to love. God commands us to love Him, and love others. (Luke 10:27)
Fear not, then obey.