Have you ever experienced intense enthusiasm for something either personally or as seen in the lives of others? The feeling almost defies description. That is one of the many reasons why I enjoy my new grandchild so much. Her willingness to ‘plunge’ into every moment looking forward to the wonders that moment will bring.
Zeal such as this is a gift from God. As a Christian we are to have a zeal or intense enthusiasm directed toward the Messiah (Romans 10:2). The prophets spoke of this as having a correct understanding based on a sound spiritual condition. This condition was two-fold. A self giving love to those who may not have any love to return along with an inner spiritual and outward ethical purity.
The key then is to take this correct understanding and show this enthusiasm first of all for the salvation of others such as we saw in God’s heart for Israel recorded in Romans 10:1. A salvation intended for all of mankind as seen in the message of the cross and the empty tomb. A message that missionaries today carry to many or a message that may transform and reform one person at a time (2 Corinthians 7:11).
No matter how our zeal is manifested, we must live in each moment directing our energy in FURTHERING GOD’S KINGDOM.
THOUGHT FOR TODAY: Zeal is contagious when carried out for Christ.
DEVOTIONAL VERSE FOR TODAY: Romans 10:2 “zeal directed toward God”.
PRAYER FOR TODAY: Lord keep my enthusiasm high to further Your Kingdom.
QUESTIONS TO THINK ABOUT:
- For what do you have ‘intense enthusiasm’?
- How do some wrongly boast in their zeal?
- Where can you give love where their may be none returned?
- What is inner spiritual and outward ethical purity?