Enthusiasm & Empowerment

Scripture:

“His power… is at work within us.” (Eph. 3:20)

“So, my dear brothers and sisters, be strong and immovable. Always work enthusiastically for the Lord, for you know that nothing you do for the Lord is ever useless” (1 Corinthians 15:58 NLT)

Reading:

What lights you up? What makes you feel enthusiastic?

The word enthusiasm comes from two Greek words that mean “in” and “God.” Quite literally, the word means “full of God!” Zeal. Eager. Whole-heartedness.

In God, enthusiasm for what is good and right and true (2 Chronicles 31:20) is a fruit of His sanctifying work in your life. You have been set apart. “… that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light.” (1 Peter 2:9)

God, who never sleeps nor slumbers, is constantly shaping His children. “…for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure.” (Philippians 2:13)

The Holy Spirit, the Counselor, the Spirit of truth sanctifies you. He protects you. He restores you. He empowers you. And in Christ, He will fuel you with enthusiasm that testifies you have been with Him. (John 15:26-27)

God given enthusiasm empowers you to:

• partner with Jesus in His redemptive story (John 15:4-5, 1 Corinthians 3:9)
• restore order from chaos (Genesis 2:15, Psalm 34:14)
• invest in others (Philippians 2:3, Matthew 20:28-32)

And the Lord is enthusiastic about you! In God there is unlimited enthusiasm available to you. In partnership with His will, His empowerment will overflow to you until that day you stand before Him with an enthusiasm incomprehensible (John 15:11)!

Your Turn:

1. Recall a time when you were particularly enthusiastic. What does your relationship with God and others look like when you are enthusiastic about where the Lord has led you?
2. Positive thinking is not enough to stay enthusiastic. You must be aware of the Lord, not temporary factors. What spiritual practices help you abide in God?

Prayer:

Father God, I welcome Your work in my life. I pray for enthusiasm for the good work You have prepared for me to do today. You are able to do above and beyond all that I ask or think according to the power that works in me – to Christ be all the glory. Amen.