Obedience is a heart issue, a reflection of how much we trust God’s love for us. Obedience that does not flow from the heart counts for very little in the eyes of God. It’s what’s inside that counts. Motivation counts because God wants our love and friendship, not just the right behavior. He created us for intimacy with him and he patiently woos us as we learn not just to do what he desires but to surrender to his love. This is genuine Christian spiritual transformation. Such transformation always works from the inside out. And love is always its source, motivation and expression. 

David G Benner,Surrender to Love