Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom which cannot be shaken, let us have grace, by which we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear. For our God is a consuming fire. Hebrews 12:28–29 NKJV

Some friends of mine have a great zeal for hiking in the United States National Parks. They pursue hiking with great enthusiasm and energy. Years ago they trained with smaller hikes as they prepared to hike rim-to-rim of the Grand Canyon in Arizona. They’re now in their sixties and still have that fervor to pursue their hiking goals. Recent letters tell of hikes they’ve recently completed.

The definition of zeal is to have a great energy or enthusiasm in pursuit of a cause or an objective.

God is zealous.

God fervently pursues mankind.

Christmas is a prime example of God’s zeal for mankind. God gave us His only Son that first Christmas. He is our Savior, Christ the Lord, just as the angels told the shepherds (Luke 2:8–14). Jesus Christ left the comforts and power of His heavenly position to become one of us. He showed us Who God is, and the way to God the Father. It is the zeal of God that made this happen, as we are told in Isaiah.

For unto us a child is born, unto us a Son is given; and the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace…the zeal of the LORD of hosts will perform this. Isaiah 9:6,7b

God’s zeal for mankind did not end with sending a Baby to be born in a feed trough. God’s objective was to provide for our salvation and for us to be reunited into a relationship with Him. The zeal of Jesus Christ is shown in His ministry to us. His passion is shown by His blood shed on the cross for the forgiveness of our sins. Jesus’ resurrection is proof of His power over sin and death. His loving pursuit of us extends into His plans for our lives.

God has a passion for His people and for His plan for them.

God foretold of Israel’s captivity among the nations for their disobedience to Him (Ezekiel 39:21–24). The Lord kept His promise that He would bring Israel back to the land. Israel was re-established as a nation on May 14, 1948, when the Jewish people declared independence after centuries of dispersion. God is not finished with them. They will know Him as the LORD their God, for He will pour out His Spirit on Israel (Ezekiel 39:25–29).

God pours His Spirit into the follower of Jesus. Jesus sent the Spirit of Truth from the Father. The Holy Spirit teaches us all things and brings to our memories what we learn from Jesus (John 14:26 and John 15:26–27). He came so we can have an abundant life of joy (John 10:10).God’s plan is for us to obey Him and live a life that bears witness for Him.

Someday Jesus will come back to earth. He will sit on King David’s throne and reign with justice forever (Isaiah 9:6–7).

God has great zeal in having His name be glorified.

God is worthy of our love and devotion. He has done so much for us! We are to be Jesus’ witnesses of His salvation, forgiveness, and love. We are to make disciples and teach them to observe the teachings of Jesus (Matthew 28:19–20). Our lives should bring glory to Him.

Let’s serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear (Hebrews 12:28b).

How can you be a good witness for God?

• Make sure you have a personal connection with Jesus. It is a relationship, not a religion.
• Pray.
• Study Scripture.
• Follow what God’s Word teaches.
• Make a commitment to tell someone about Jesus this month. Who will you talk with?
• Share what Jesus has done in your life.

Let’s echo God’s zeal by living a life that burns fervently for Him.

Lord, Thank you for Your zeal that pursues me. I don’t deserve Your love and plans for me. Thank you for the gift of salvation. Please help me to zealously pursue You and to tell others about You. Amen.

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Scriptures marked NKJV are taken from the NEW KING JAMES VERSION (NKJV): Scripture taken from the NEW KING JAMES VERSION®. Copyright© 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. Used by permission. All rights reserved.

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