Not Left Behind!

We have what we call "mountain top" experiences in life (i.e. teen Bible camps, youth rallies, workshops, other forms of fellowship, or even service projects, etc.) that UPLIFT and EXCITE us. They pump us up. They make us feel good. They empower us to press on. However, moving from the mountain top takes us to the valleys. Sometimes leaving the "mountain top" means leaving some of the sensation behind. Have we experienced it? Still, can we not find some way to carry that ENTHUSIASM and ZEAL on with us as we deal with daily life in the valleys?

Prior to the recent senior teen camp session of which I was involved, I took a prayer walk around the camp (as I have done for several years) and among the things for which I prayed was for both the teens and staff to leave at the end of camp different than we came. Each year we try to encourage the teens to not allow what happens at camp to stay at camp. The spiritual high they may experience during a week away from the real world, needs to remain with them to keep them (and all of us) strong as we continue to allow God to use us. How sad it is when teens return from some spiritual encounter and are either viewed or even told (as their EXCITEMENT and ZEAL are witnessed), "Oh, they'll get over it." Certainly ZEAL should be based on what is true (note Romans 10:2) and be properly directed, but shame on those who would put out rather than fan their flame of faith and desire to give themselves wholly to living for God. Shame also on us who have allowed that spirit to diminish in our own life. May the expectation and encouragement be toward continued GENUINE ZEAL FOR THE LORD. When the fire of faith is lit, may we not allow others or the cares of life to begin to squelch it.

When Moses came down from the mountain, it was evident to the nation of Israel he had been in the presence of God. His face shone and the people were afraid to approach him. ( Exodus 34:30-35) As the Apostles stood firm in their faith, the Jewish leaders took note that they had been with Jesus. ( Acts 4:13) Is there evidence in our life revealing our continued connection to the Lord? Our connection with the Lord must be more than a "camp thing", but a daily thing. Through daily prayer, Bible reading, and personal and family daily devotions the fire of our faith can continue burning bright to maintain an EXCITEMENT and ZEAL for living for the Lord and His purposes.

Jesus pressed on with a ZEAL for the things of the Father. The Apostles pressed on with a ZEAL for the Gospel of Jesus. Are we developing the same focus? What is it that consumes us? When Jesus cleared the temple, His disciples remembered . . .

"(17) His disciples remembered that it was written, 'ZEAL FOR YOUR HOUSE WILL CONSUME ME.'" ( John 2:17 ESV) [quoting from Psalm 69:9)

It was more than what was going on within a structure, but what was out of place with a proper relationship to God and His Will. We too must be concerned with what is going on among and within ourselves (God's temple; 1 Corinthians 3:16; 6:19-20) on a daily basis and seek to encourage others toward it as well. As we strive to be like Jesus, may we maintain a ZEAL for what God desires as we live to please Him and urge others to do the same. Let us remain EXCITED about what God has done and is doing on our behalf, and what He has assured us of for the future.

Have a great day DRIVEN BY GENUINE ENTHUSIASM FOR THE THINGS OF GOD!
Carl

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