How many of us, especially as children, have asked that very question? Although I learned not to verbally ask because I knew I would end up doing the task anyway despite my reluctance, my attitude was less than cheerful or willing. Sadly, sometimes that attitude flared up after becoming an adult. Even more sad is when I used to feel that way toward doing something for God. 

For example, do I have to go to church today? Do I have to participate in the ladies’ tea where each of us being assigned as someone’s “secret sister” is finally revealed? Do I really have to finish that Bible study assignment or read the daily passage today?

How grateful I am that God has grown me to a place of gratitude! I no longer see tasks in the framework of reluctant obligation. Rather, I recognize that serving God is a privilege. Acts 17:25 tells me God is not served by human hands, as if he needed anything. That means God allows me to serve Him. Jesus paid the penalty for my sin, so I am free to serve Him out of joy instead of out of obligation.

“Thanks be to God, who delivers me through Jesus Christ our Lord!” (Romans 7:25) If that is my ongoing perspective, my gratitude will be evident in my actions. Instead of asking “do I have to?”, today my mindset is “do I get to?”