The Struggle To Obey

by Brooke Bergan
Published July 29, 2005

"...for it is God who works in you to will and to act according to His good purpose."
-Philippians 2:13 (NIV)

"Why? Why can't I just obey?" Tears flowed freely as I cradled my aching head. "I know the Scriptures, I know I need Your help," I prayed, "so why can't I obey? What's wrong with me?"

The familiar cry had erupted from my heart every day for the past several months. No matter how many times I rehearsed my intent to obey God, it seemed I always chose to disobey at the last minute. It didn't matter how sincere my repentance, and my knowledge of Philippians 2:13 did little to help. Nevertheless, I continued praying the above Scripture, unaware that the key to obedience lay within it.

I'd heard many sermons on this Scripture, but most centered on the Holy Spirit's role in helping me want to obey. It wasn't until recently that God opened my eyes to see what I'd been missing. Let's look at that verse again, but from a different vantage point.

"...for it is God who works in you to will and to act according to His good purpose."

The reason for my frustration was that I didn't know the full implications of the promise I claimed. After all, how could I have faith in a promise I didn't even know existed? While I knew God promised to supply the desire to obey, it took a specific Scripture to reveal to me the means of that obedience. The difference is as big as that between simply wanting to eat healthier and combining that desire with money to buy fresh fruit. So if someday you find yourself flunking Crop Growing 101, try not to beat yourself up. Instead, why not seek God's provision?

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