Z is for Zeal...

Z is for Zeal

The Merriam-Webster Online Dictionary defines zeal as:

: eagerness and ardent interest in pursuit of something 

What a way to end the A to Z Challenge.  I feel like I have approached this challenge with much zeal.  I pray that we, as Christians approach our relationship with Jesus Christ with a zealous attitude.  I hope and pray that each one of us is eager and passionate about the Word and our eternal home in Heaven.

‘Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God is one LORD: And thou shalt love the LORD thy God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy might.  And these words, which I command thee this day, shall be in thine heart: And thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up.’    Deuteronomy 6:4-7

Our children and even the world need to see our love for God not only in church related events but also in our everyday walk.

‘And as they went on their way, they came unto a certain water: and the eunuch said, See, here is water; what doth hinder me to be baptized? And Philip said, If thou believest with all thine heart, thou mayest. And he answered and said, I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God. And he commanded the chariot to stand still: and they went down both into the water, both Philip and the eunuch; and he baptized him.’     Acts 8:36-38

                   

‘Brethren, my heart’s desire and prayer to God for Israel is, that they might be saved. For I bear them record that they have a zeal of God, but not according to knowledge.’     Romans 10:1-2

‘Not slothful in business; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord;’     Romans 12:11

‘For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.’     Ephesians 2:10

‘Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.’     Ephesians 6:10-13

Each of us needs to have the zeal or eagerness to walk close enough to Jesus Christ that we can withstand the devil, we will be ready for him.

I have thoroughly enjoyed the challenge.  My hope and prayer is you have been blessed along the way and perhaps it has given you more to think about as it did me.

until next time…nel