Thurs., 2/9/17 Devotion (Rom. 12:11)

Today's encouragement comes from Romans 12:11, where we read these words:

" . . . not lagging in diligence, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord . . . "

Paul would have all of us Christian church members 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 situ-ation 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 Sabbath. 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 In-struction and Trial"]