Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer" (Romans 12:11-12 NIV).
The word zeal is defined as intense enthusiasm, as in working for a cause; ardent endeavor or devotion; ardor; fervor. It is with this zeal that you are to keep serving the Lord by praying, reading the Bible, and being the Lord’s ambassador on this earth. I believe it is very difficult sometimes to keep the zeal Paul talks about here. Life can hit you hard at times with problems of some sort, and it is very easy to lose your zeal as well as your hope. There are times when it might feel as if you can't seem to even smile because of all the difficulties you face.
Paul encourages us with these words, “And we pray this in order that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and may please him in every way:………being strengthened with all power according to his glorious might so that you may have great endurance and patience and joyfully giving thanks to the Father” (Col. 1:10,11 NIV). I am reminded of Paul and Silas and their praying and singing when they were put in jail. Acts 16:25 They could have decided to sit in the corner and mourn their situation, but instead, they used this very dreary experience to witness by praying out loud and singing songs to the Lord. An earthquake occurred and Paul and Silas' prison doors were opened. Instead of running away though they stayed and witnessed to the jailer. They are an example of the way a person can overcome impossible situations and be patient in affliction and faithful in prayer.
When you feel overwhelmed to the point of giving up, think back on all the ways the Lord has blessed you and take hope in the fact that the Lord is just a prayer away. He will help you to find peace in this situation. Just remember to be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, and faithful in prayer.
Dear Lord,
Thank you for the hope that is given through your word by the examples of Paul and Silas and other disciples. We know that you will give us the strength and courage to handle any difficult circumstance.
In Jesus' name,
Amen
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