Church Blog

October 5 2009 at 6:00 am

Do Not Be Slothful in Zeal

2 Comments

Yesterday I preached from Romans 12:11, “Do not be slothful in zeal, be fervent in spirit, serve the Lord.”

It seems the Lord has been speaking to many of us in the area of self-control over the last couple weeks. In this sermon (originally “point #4” of last week’s sermon), I wanted to get at the heart of what the Spirit is speaking to us, and what it means for us to respond.

You can listen to the message online, or download an mp3, and use the following questions prepared by pastor Don DeVries to help apply the sermon to your life:

1. When it comes to your relationship with the Lord, are you zealous and set aflame by the Holy Spirit?

2. Where have you been slothful in your zeal and passion for the Lord?

3. What good things or good activities (eg., movies, sports, exercise, hobbies, yard work, music, schooling, housework, etc.) are drawing you away from being passionate for the Lord?

4. What things do you need to say “no” to? What things do you need to say “yes” to (e.g., prayer, Scripture intake, hospitality, serving, evangelism—see Rom. 12:9-13)?

5. Do you live with a peace-time mindset, concerned mostly with your comfort, or a wartime mindset, concerned about sacrifice and living fully for the kingdom of God?

Last but not least, here’s a PDF containing a summary outline of the message combined with the application questions above.





I sometimes do not understand why it happens to me. I’m talking about the times when I know in my heart and mind and soul that I need to set out some time for the Lord but then I get lazy and just sit around thinking yes I have to pick up the Bible and read it and pray! I feel like I’m lacking the motivation and the spiritual drive I so much need! Even at this very moment, I have the Bible in front of me and I’m just sitting looking at it and telling myself ok, just a few more minutes and I’ll get to it. I believe I’m one of those people in the parable who readily receive the word of God showing enthusiasm but as soon as they leave the church they forget about what they have heard or learnt till the next service.
How should I overcome this slothful behavior?
Thanks,
Grace

By Grace Bhatti on 10/05/2009

Grace - I appreciate your struggle.  I too often struggle with a lack of zeal for the things of God.  I believe that the best way to combat this is to read and meditate and bask in the glory of God’s wonderful promises.  Don’t look at reading your bible as just something you need to do.  Rather, go to God’s word and ask Him to show you the glory of his holiness.  Ask him to open your eyes to the the unsurpassed beauty of his being.  And as you do, He will become for you a treasure worth far more than anything this world has to offer!

By David on 10/09/2009
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