“SERVING WITH FIRE”

“Do not be slothful in zeal, be fervent in spirit, serve the Lord.”

Romans 12:11

How do you know when something is done with love? It is done with care, diligence, and energy. When you love doing something, you don’t get discouraged that easily. Even if you do, you always find ways to get back on track because you know that you’d want to do it for the rest of your life.

On the other hand, when something is done out of compulsion, need, or obligation, you tend to give nothing but the bare minimum, and there is no desire to go the extra mile. You’re always sluggish, disheartened, and prone to resent your position.

Which scenario describes your condition today?

In Romans 12, Paul explains how believers are to practice the fundamental Christian teachings of the first eleven chapters. He urges his readers to honour God by living in such a manner acceptable to Him, which is their spiritual worship (verse 2).

In verses 9-21, Paul presents a list of commands that leads to a God-honoring life. He teaches that everything a believer does must be rooted in love—the most significant Christian virtue. Love focuses on the needs and welfare of others instead of oneself.

In verse 10, Paul commands Christians to love one another, which resonates with Jesus’ instructions to His disciples in John 13:34. As fellow believers in Christ, Christians are spiritual brothers and sisters.

Paul admonishes his readers to avoid being lazy and indifferent. They do not hesitate to do what’s right and do things with passion and enthusiasm. The term “be fervent in spirit” literally translates “to boil in spirit.” It refers to having an abundance of energy to produce the right amount of heat, but not too much that it goes out of control.

Serving God is not a right but a privilege. That’s the first thing we need to understand if we want to please the Lord. Having the right frame of mind enables us to serve God and His people with the right balance of intensity and control. This is perhaps why there are ministers who are still highly productive and inspiring despite being in their old age.

My prayer is that you will discover your spiritual gift or gifts and use them to help others and lead them to Christ. Life on earth is short; there’s no time to be idle or live in resentment. So, be passionate about God and serve Him with fire.

Pursue the Saviour today!