What if on Valentines Day a husband came to his wife and gave her a bouquet of flowers and a box of chocolates? That sounds pretty nice. And what if his wife thanked him profusely for the thoughtful gifts. Then what if the husband responded, “Oh don’t think anything of it. It is my duty to give you these tokens of appreciation. I do it because I am supposed to do it.” (Yikes, is there a way to hit reverse in this story?!) How would you feel if a gift was presented in this way? Probably not very honored or loved.

Let’s hit rewind and consider a different and heartfelt response to his wife:
“It makes me glad to bring you things. In fact, it brings me more delight to spend this night with you than anyone I might. I cannot think of a way I’d rather spend this day than satisfying my desire with one I so much admire. It gladdens me to be with you. I will magnify you by making you the joy of my life.”
(From John Piper, Desiring God)

It is not that duty is wrong. In fact it is a virtue to behold. But loving out of duty is not the greatest expression of love. Loving because there is nothing else which you find more satisfying, now that is love.

Now imagine that instead of man and wife, the scenario is between you and God. “God, look at my good deeds that I do for you. Consider my gifts to the church. Watch how my life is one of service to you, because it is my duty to serve you.” Maybe that doesn’t sound too bad to you, because we have been raised, many of us, to think of our spiritual life as one of service and duty. And it is, but only because this stems from a greater enjoyment of spending time with God, being more satisfied when in his presence than anything else on earth. I think God is as pleased with such an expression of love as you are when a child comes to you simply because they enjoy your company.

Enjoy God. Be fully satisfied in him and celebrate such great love.

Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good;
his love endures forever. Psalm 107:1