Zealousness!

Paul -- having spent part of his life as a Pharisee zealous for the law ( Philippians 3:5) and the traditions of the fathers ( Galatians 1:14) and a persecutor of the church ( Philippians 3:6) -- had a heart that went out to his Jewish brethren who were still going down that same road. (i.e. Romans 9:2-3) He understood what it was to act in ignorance and refuse to accept the truth of Jesus. Having experienced spiritual blindness and deafness himself ( Romans 11:8), he related to those who focused on a Jewish heritage rather than recognizing what truly is the WILL OF GOD.

Further stating his desire with regard to his Jewish brethren Paul wrote. . .

"(1) Brothers, my heart's desire and prayer to God for them is that they may be saved. (2) For I bear them witness that THEY HAVE A ZEAL FOR GOD, BUT NOT ACCORDING TO KNOWLEDGE. (3) BEING IGNORANT OF THE RIGHTEOUSNESS THAT COMES FROM GOD, and seeking to establish their own, they did not submit to God's righteousness." ( Romans 10:1-3 ESV)

Whether we are referring to religious life or secular life (though the truth of God should be the basis of our whole life), it is possible for people to be zealous for a lot of things -- pouring lots of time and energy into them -- while being sincerely wrong! Jesus even noted those who could have done many good works in His Name, yet still not have been right with Him because their focus had not been on the WILL OF THE FATHER. ( Matthew 7:21-23) Zeal like this is kind of like running strong in a race, but heading toward the wrong finish line. Lots of diligence and energy expended and with a racing form that may look good, but for what?

It is not what we have decided is right, but rather the RIGHTEOUSNESS OF GOD we are to base our life upon. ( Romans 10:3) Sincerity, mere pious religious devotion, or zealousness are not enough. To not fall victim to a misguided zeal we must develop a God-guided one. Let us remain focused on acknowledging GOD'S WILL as we pursue living based upon it. This will enable His Will and not our own to be fulfilled in and through us. May our life be marked by a sincere zealousness that is fully based on the KNOWLEDGE OF GOD'S WILL.

Have a great day SUBMITTING TO THE RIGHTEOUSNESS OF GOD!
Carl

See other teEn-MAIL on God's Will