Wednesday, April 23, 2025

.....fire

Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord Romans 12:11

A circus owner walked into a restaurant and noticed a crowd gathered around a table. On the table was an upside-down pot — and on top of the pot, a duck was tap dancing! Amazed, the circus owner offered to buy the duck. After some bargaining, he paid $10,000 for the duck and the pot, confident it would be the next big act under his big top.

Three days later, he stormed back into the restaurant, furious. "Your duck is a rip-off!" he shouted. "I put him on the pot in front of a huge audience, and he didn’t dance a single step!" The duck’s former owner calmly asked, "Did you remember to light the candle under the pot?"

Sometimes the same thing can happen in our walk with God. Just like that duck needed a little fire to get moving, we need a spark, too. And without the steady flame of spiritual fire, our passion cools. Our joy fades. We find ourselves going through the motions instead of dancing with delight.

In Romans 12, Paul gives us this challenge: "Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord." In other words, don’t let your fire go out! Spiritual fire doesn’t stay lit on its own. It needs fuel. Just like that duck needed a little heat to move, we need regular time in God’s presence to stay energized. We need prayer, worship, truth from Scripture and encouragement from fellow believers. Without those things, our faith starts to cool down.

Trying to live for God without staying connected to God is like putting that duck on the pot and forgetting the flame.

So, if you’re feeling a little sluggish in your spiritual walk, maybe it’s time to check the fire under the pot. Spend some time with God. The flame may be small at first, but with the Spirit's help, it can grow again. And when we stay close to the fire, our hearts will begin to dance once again.

Lord, thank you for being the true source of my passion and energy. When I feel tired or stuck, remind me to turn back to you. Rekindle my heart with love for you and excitement to serve you. Keep me burning brightly for your glory. In Jesus’ name, amen.

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