“Zeal” is defined as “eagerness and ardent interest in pursuit of something; fervor.”
Do we have a zeal for anything? Do we possess a fervor driving the actions of our life? Where that is grounded will determine into what it is leading us.
Zeal can be a great and beneficial driving force in life. However we must give serious consideration as to where it is grounded. Remember, in Paul’s zeal for the law of God he became a persecutor of Christians. (i.e Galatians 3:14-15; Philippians 3:6) This was his own admission. However, once he became a disciple of Jesus, that same zeal moved Him to boldly proclaim the Gospel and draw others to Jesus wherever he went; a boldness he sought to retain even when imprisoned at Rome. (Ephesians 6:19-20)
Clearly, it is important that zeal be based upon proper knowledge. (Romans 10:2-3) With Jesus and the assured hope in Him kept steadfastly in mind, Paul pressed on focused on “the upward call of God in Christ Jesus”! (Philippians 3:13) So, where is our zeal leading us?
Paul urged Christians at Rome . . .
“(11) Do not be slothful in zeal, be fervent in spirit, serve the Lord.” (Romans 12:11 ESV)
There Paul addressed both zeal and fervor, but with its focus not on serving self interest but on serving the Lord. In so doing, our greatest eternal interest will be fulfilled! If we seek to glorify God in all we do and say — as we continue to live in accordance with His Sovereign Will as revealed in the Scriptures — the greater success we will have in our zeal for living being properly directed. May such zeal remain a powerful motivator in steadfastly pressing on as servants of Jesus Christ living to draw others to Him!
Have a great day WITH A ZEAL FOR THE LORD CONSUMING US!
Carl
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(“teEn-MAIL” is sent out daily by Carl Hanson, preacher for the Church of Christ in Port Townsend, Washington, USA, located at 230 A Street, Port Townsend, WA 98368. Come visit us if in the area.)
