A lazy zeal? One doesn’t normally expect
those two in the same sentence. One is the antithesis of the other. It would
seem that zeal could not burn where laziness persists. And laziness could not
exist where zeal burns. Yet, in some measure, it must be possible since Paul
warns against it.
Perhaps, the issue is tied to being “fervent
in spirit.” What fires our spirit? Certainly, a fired up spirit fuels our zeal
and motivates us to act. And the action that Paul suggests is “serving the
Lord.” It amazes me how people from all walks of life get all fired up over
sports and politics, but remain cool when asked to serve Christ.
What ignites our enthusiasm? That is the
question. What do we dream about? Are we cowering in fear or empowered by a
fervent spirit? Fear will produce a lazy zeal. But a fervent spirit will drive
worry away.
Enthusiasm and excitement may be in the top
three blessings of all time. Consider your day. Yes, there are concerns in our
lives that cannot be ignored, but our concerns offer great opportunities to
trust God for victory over them. Isn’t that something to get excited about?
Dear Father, thank you for enthusiasm and
zeal. Empower me to be fervent in spirit and zealous for you. This I pray in
the name of Jesus. AMEN
Be enthusiastically courageous today in your
zeal for God,
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