“Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord.” (Romans 12:11)
Have you noticed, lately, that a lot of people are bad-mouthing cynicism? It’s not as popular as it once was – or will likely be again. (See what I did there.)
I know long-time Christians sometimes get cynical about the church and the state of Christianity. I don’t think the Bible teaches that we should never question each other’s motives. But walking like Jesus doesn’t leave room for indulging in cynicism about the path we’re on.
Cynicism sometimes leads to funny jokes, but it also kills joy. It makes us feel smart for protecting ourselves from dashed hopes, but it also keeps us from hoping without reservation in the power of God in us to do his work in his time.
God is asking us to walk with intentional enthusiasm, to stay emotionally invested in living for Jesus, to find an authentic excitement about serving God today.
Think: Do you think it’s right for God to tell us what to feel while serving him? Do you think it’s right for a coach to expect an athlete to be “up” for a game, to have the intensity needed to play his or her best? Are those similar ideas?
Pray: Ask God to help you to never be lacking in zeal, but to keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord.
Do: Make a quick list of three of the most genuinely enthusiastic and motivated Christians you know.