How can we encourage others to maintain zeal and fervor in their service? Setting Our Sights on Romans 12:11 “Do not let your zeal subside; keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord.” Why Zeal Matters • Zeal keeps love active (Romans 12:9–10). • Fervor fuels perseverance when service gets costly (Galatians 6:9). • A wholehearted spirit honors the Lord who served us first (Mark 10:45). Common Chill Factors • Weariness from prolonged ministry (Isaiah 40:30). • Distraction by lesser pursuits (2 Timothy 2:4). • Discouragement through criticism or lack of visible fruit (1 Kings 19:10). Naming these helps us speak into them. Ways to Stoke Zeal in Others 1. Point Them to God’s Character – Remind them He “richly supplies us with all things to enjoy” (1 Timothy 6:17). – Zeal grows when they see they serve a generous, living King. 2. Highlight Their Calling – 2 Timothy 1:6: “Fan into flame the gift of God.” – Calling is personal; rehearse specific ways you’ve seen God use their gifts. 3. Share Stories of Faithfulness – Hebrews 10:24–25 urges believers to “spur one another on.” – Celebrate small victories, answered prayers, and lives touched. 4. Offer Tangible Support • Practical help (meals, childcare, shared resources). • Thoughtful notes or texts with Scripture (Proverbs 25:11). • Showing up unasked at their ministry events. 5. Model Zeal Yourself – Paul told the Corinthians, “Imitate me, as I also imitate Christ” (1 Corinthians 11:1). – Enthusiasm is contagious; consistent joy signals that serving the Lord is worth it. 6. Speak Life-Giving Words • Proverbs 18:21: “Life and death are in the power of the tongue.” • Replace “You’re burning out” with “God’s strength is made perfect in your weakness—how can I help?” 7. Provide Rest Opportunities – Jesus invited weary disciples to “come away… and rest” (Mark 6:31). – Strategic rest prevents long-term zeal loss. Conversation Starters That Ignite • “I saw how you loved that newcomer today—God is using you.” • “Your lesson reminded me of Psalm 119:130; keep opening the word for us.” • “Let’s pray through Colossians 3:23 together so we both stay wholehearted.” Guarding the Flame Together • Meet regularly for shared Scripture reading; iron sharpens iron (Proverbs 27:17). • Commit to mutual accountability on schedules and soul-care. • End each gathering with a brief testimony of where zeal was renewed that week. Looking Ahead Zeal sustained becomes a witness. As believers encourage one another, communities see servants “overflowing with the work of the Lord” (1 Corinthians 15:58). Keep fanning the flame—someone’s spark today may light an entire generation tomorrow. |
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