" . . . not lagging in diligence, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord . . . "
Paul would have all of us churchmen remain energized in our living for Christ, and our ministry in His church and the world. Sometimes we can become a bit slack in our zeal; and even remiss in our duties. This situation is understandable; but ultimately, it is not excusable. So long as we possess Jesus, by faith; the Holy Spirit (as a result of our faith); the church (as the community of faith); and the Sabbath (as the day of rest that we all need)--we will be fine.
When all these dynamics are in place we will always have our souls and spirits "re-lit" by the grace of God; and we will never really "burn out." "Burn-out" is for the world--those who know no Savior or Sab-
bath. It is not the lot of the redeemed.
[Puritan quote of the day: "Grace is necessary for a Christian; others things are but inconveniences." --Christopher Love, in his sermon, "Uses of Instruction and Trial"]
