Articles
Be Zealous
The grand, unfathomable outcome for the meritless faithful is that the temporary, uncertain life we now live will lead into a life that is eternal, with no more sorrow, death, tears or pain in the very presence of the Almighty God, the Savior and King who purchased our redemption, along with heavenly beings and all of those from the beginning of time who ever lived acceptably as a people of God. The life we are living now will then simply be “former things that are passed away”. (Rev 21:4).
But until that timeless day, it is remarkable to consider that all living faithfully on this side of eternity’s line are already considered His possession and people:
[Jesus] gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a people for his own possession, zealous of good works. (Titus 2:14)
There are several profound thoughts in this verse worthy of fuller study, but this quarter’s theme will add to Knowing the Time (Rom 13:11) and Here Am I; Send Me (Isa 6:8) with a focus on zealous of good works, particularly the exhortation for us to strive not just to do good works but to Be Zealous in our work of service.
The inspired choice of the word zealous is essential for understanding the nature of Christ’s people as we live now. Parents know well the difference between a child’s reluctant, unenthusiastic or grudging obedience compared to one that gladly and eagerly performs what is asked of them. The latter has a zeal for the work. They love their parents. They want to please them. There is joy and happiness in performing their work. Children that are zealous (at least, in this sense!) are beautiful in the sight of their parents.
It is the same for the Lord’s children. God notices the difference between rote obedience and zealous works. If we are His possession, the zeal we have distinguishes us even more than the works we may do. Good works are common, but good works driven by Godly zeal is how we aim to serve. So our goal is not mere compliance, but rather zealous service.
The word zeal has a figurative connotation to heat or fire. Zealous Christians are sometimes described as being “on fire for the Lord”.
Unfortunately, zeal in our service within the Lord’s church can ebb and flow. Zeal can be diminished by personal conflicts, disappointment, loss, complaining, or by life’s everyday pressing demands. There are many more zeal-stealers than can be named here. As with a fire, zeal can diminish and cool off without constant replenishment.
How then do we maintain or increase zeal? We can simply continue to be like the child who seeks to please the master that they love. And God’s children we are: for of such is the kingdom of heaven (Mt 19:14). Jesus claimed that the Father was with Him, saying: for I do always those things that please him (Jn 8:29). God affirmed He was indeed pleased (Mt 3:17).
Let us always prioritize seeking to please Him, being aware that He does notice. Zeal will increase and drive our good works. The yoke and burden of service in the kingdom will become easy and light (Mt 11:30). The works set before us will be answered with a zealous “Here am I; Sent Me!”
Knowing the time, let’s seek to Be Zealous.
May Thy rich grace impart Strength to my fainting heart,
My zeal inspire!
As thou hast died for me, O may my love to Thee,
Pure, warm and changeless be:
A living fire.
(My Faith Looks Up to Thee. Ray Palmer. 1830)
Ron
