Divine Influence

For zeal for your house has consumed me. Psalm 69:9

D.L. MOODY
I heard of someone who was speaking the other day of something that was to be done, and he hoped zeal would be tempered with moderation. Another friend very wisely replied that he hoped moderation would be tempered with zeal. If that were always the case, Christianity would be like a red-hot ball rolling over the face of the Earth. There is no power on Earth that can stand before the onward march of God’s people when they are in dead earnest.

ERWIN LUTZER
Zeal is a character quality many of us lack. Many Christians are zealous for their favorite sports team or zealous for politics, but how many of us are zealous for the gospel? Are we burdened for those around us who do not know Christ?
All of us would like to be a positive influence, the kind of influence that enables us to give people direction, to give them help, to impact their lives forever in the right direction. But, too often, we are not motivated, we lack the conviction to follow through with discipline and consistency.
So I ask, “Do we share Christ’s zeal?”
Freely we have received. Freely we must give (see Matthew 10:8). As Jesus Christ’s representatives, we have the privilege of introducing men and women to saving faith, to explain the gospel and, being God’s link on Earth, to pray for their conversion. Let’s ask God for the motivation to take some bold steps for the benefit of the lost, for the benefit of His church and, above all, for His glory.

PRAYER
Father, make me passionate with the zeal that motivated Jesus for His house and His people.

REFLECTION QUESTIONS
Why is it often easier for us to be zealous for sports or politics than for the eternal message of the gospel?

What specific fears or distractions most often prevent you from following through with the discipline needed to share your faith?