Just as an ECG can measure the health of our physical heart and blockages that can threaten it, it’s helpful to have an instrument that can measure the level of our zeal, commitment, and wholeheartedness when it comes to serving the Lord. The following six questions will do just that: 1) Do I talk openly and frequently about my commitment to Christ in order to create a kind of public accountability for my actions? 2) Do I accept the responsibility to grow? Do I read books and practise skills and get together with those farther down the road who can help me improve? 3) Do I complain about problems in a way that cleverly rationalises a half-hearted involvement? 4) Do I handle discouragements by talking with God and requesting strength to persevere? 5) Do I acknowledge and celebrate even my small steps in the right direction? 6) The apostle Paul writes, ‘Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervour, serving the Lord.’ Zeal describes passion, persistence, and power. And these are things I am able to track and guard. Am I honest about my level of zeal these days? When my zeal is flagging, do I take steps to renew it? Think about each of these questions carefully and prayerfully. Be honest with God and with yourself. And if you don’t like the answers, decide today to take action. Spend more time alone with God in prayer and reading His Word. Having a burning zeal for God is like tending a fire; it requires constant fuelling and maintenance. And no one else can do that for you.
