For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure. — Philippians 2:13
For several years, I have often heard the statement “my pleasure” when I thank someone at a popular fast food chain. I have often heard it from other service areas, where I may express my appreciation for what they have done. But there is another phrase that uses the word pleasure that has often caught my attention. That’s when someone says, “I serve at the pleasure of…”
It’s often considered in the political arena. From some historical viewpoints, the use of this phase, related to serving at the pleasure of the president, dates back to the late 1700s. The phrase means that these people are loyal to the president. What the president wants, they are willing to do. Wherever the president may send them, they are willing to go.
There are many variations of the term that date even further back in history. They often referred to monarchs and other world leaders. But that is certainly not what Paul had in mind here. He wasn’t serving at the pleasure of any political leader of his day. He was serving to the pleasure of God.
Whatever God wanted in his life, he was willing to do. No matter the sacrifice, circumstances, or distance, if it was for God, he was willing. He wanted God to be able to move in his life and accomplish His will. He was serving at the pleasure of God.
Are we serving at His pleasure? No matter what God would have us to do, are we willing? We all have the ability to choose to serve God or not. Rather than fighting against Him, we should let God work in our lives. Our commitment should be to live our lives, serving at His pleasure.
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