Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality.
Romans 12:10-13, The New International Version
This weekend we moved a little further into Romans 12 and discovered a two-toned truth. In one way the verse stands alone and in the other, it ties back to our discussion on relationships. The verse simply says, "Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord."
On its own, this verse challenges us to stoke the flames of our spiritual lives on a daily basis. In my personal experience, I have found my spiritual fire get a bit low from time to time. Paul tells us to never allow that to happen and then gives us the keys to remedy it. He gives us two ways. First, we are to keep our spiritual fervor. This means relying on the Holy Spirit to fill us, baptize us, and motivate us with His energy. The second part is our "why" for fire; because our life is committed to serving the Lord. When the aim of our life is to please Him, we will stay on fire.
The second truth in this verse is tied to our relationships. Just like we can become cold toward the Lord, we also can become cold in other relationships. Again, in this relational context, we are challenged to press into intimacy, resolution of issues, and spiritual unity. This is all possible when we keep our spiritual life strong.
This verse is a great one to keep in front of us as we go through the seasons of life. It gives us a place to check in with ourselves and ask, "How are my relationships doing?" Let's stoke our flame and keep it burning.
Here are our action plans today:
Take your temperature with the Lord. Are we lukewarm or boiling? If we are not hot, ask the Holy Spirit to stoke your fire.
Is there someone close to you that needs some love? Reach out and don't allow your love to grow cold.
Love, Pastor Stuart