https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Phil+2%3A12-18&version=NIVUK

Therefore, my dear friends, as you have always obeyed – not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence – continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling,

Philippians 2:12

‘As you have always obeyed’ (v. 12): This is not Paul trying to play a guilt trip on us. He is describing the Holy Spirit, who is at work within us (v. 13). He is always without exception in obedience to God the Father, or, in other words, in union with the Father. This Holy Spirit drives us in will and in action to go along with His obedience. If you go along with it in agreement, it is ‘fear and trembling’ (v. 12)—revering God. But if you try to go the other direction in friction, it is ‘grumbling and arguing’ (v. 14). Can you imagine a car trying to move forward in reverse gear, or vice versa? How hard it must be! But we must be getting some sort of odd satisfaction out of the ‘hard work’; as far as I am concerned at least, I tend to go for what I want.

If we know, however, that there is no gain in it and are thinking of the Holy Spirit, let us try not to grumble and argue (in thought and in action). What you have to do instead seems so trivial that it can almost feel irritating or patronising. But take heart! The Holy Spirit does not play around. He does not mock us. He is the best carer, companion, and strengthener. He won’t let you disappear like a drink offering poured upon others and vaporised (Paul said ‘even if’, didn’t he? [v. 17]). He, who has been eternally and perfectly obedient, will lead us into being the best, the intended versions of ourselves, and beyond in obedience to and union with our Provider. Then, we are as brilliant as the gloried stars in the sky (v. 15)—just as promised to Abraham (Gen 26:4) and to Daniel (Dan 12:3).

Lord, let me be aware of my union with you today. When I want to grumble or enter into any sort of argument, openly or secretly in my heart, let me think of you. Let me go along with you in small and great things today.

• What is the danger of doing what I think is right, especially when it is a troublesome, hard work?
• How could you tell if something is what I want or the Holy Spirit’s leading?
• What would be the most difficult thing for you when you stay in obedience and, therefore, in union with God?