When we treat discipleship as a joke we make light of the Savior's love. Finally we should be serious because of the benefit to be gained. I hate to admit it, but the reason to get serious about exercise is because of the benefit that is received. Exercise allows you to have more energy, be more healthy, and be more productive. People get serious about their sports because they want to achieve success.
People are serious in their jobs because they want to reach their goals.
We get serious about the things we believe will benefit us. To receive the benefits you need to be diligent in the work. Consistently Therefore, my dear friends, as you have always obeyed not only in my presence, but now much more in my absence . . Paul acknowledges how hard the people in the church in Phillippi have worked. . . at least while he was with them. He encourages them to be faithful when he is there and when he is not.