SERVING GOD WITH ZEAL

SERVING GOD WITH ZEAL

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Romans 12:11

Supporting Texts: Titus 2:14, Galatians 4:18, Revelation 3:15–19, 2 Kings 10:16, Colossians 3:23–24

INTRODUCTION:
Zeal is passionate enthusiasm. In the Kingdom of God, zeal is the fuel that keeps believers actively engaged in service, worship, and obedience. To serve God without zeal is to serve without heart. God does not want lukewarm followers, but those who are fervent, focused, and full of fire for Him.

Throughout Scripture, we see that God uses men and women who are passionate about His purpose. Zeal energises us, makes us resilient in trials, and helps us stay committed to our calling. However, zeal must be rooted in knowledge and aligned with God’s will to produce lasting fruit.

Today, many have lost their zeal due to discouragement, distractions, or spiritual apathy. But God is calling us to rekindle our fire and serve Him with renewed passion and intensity. Let us now explore how we can serve God with zeal.

1. ZEAL IS A MARK OF TRUE DEVOTION TO GOD
Zeal reflects the depth of your love and commitment to the Lord. When you love God sincerely, it shows in how you serve Him.

a) Romans 12:11 – Fervent in Spirit, Serving the Lord
Zeal is not optional; it is the expected posture of every believer.

b) Galatians 4:18 – It Is Good to Be Zealously Affected Always in a Good Thing
Zeal should be constant, not occasional or circumstantial.

c) Revelation 3:19 – Be Zealous Therefore and Repent
God rebukes lukewarmness and calls us to burning passion.

d) Titus 2:14 – A People Zealous of Good Works
We are redeemed to live a life of passionate service to God.

Biblical Example: Phinehas was zealous for the Lord’s honour and stopped a plague (Numbers 25:6–13).

2. ZEAL MUST BE ROOTED IN KNOWLEDGE AND TRUTH
Blind zeal can be dangerous. True zeal is guided by the Word and empowered by the Spirit.

a) Romans 10:2 – Zeal Without Knowledge Is Misguided
We must be properly taught so our passion does not lead us astray.

b) Colossians 3:16 – Let the Word Dwell in You Richly
Scripture forms the foundation for wise and informed zeal.

c) Proverbs 19:2 – It Is Not Good to Have Zeal Without Knowledge
Passion must be balanced with wisdom.

d) Psalm 119:139 – My Zeal Has Consumed Me Because My Enemies Forget Your Words
Righteous zeal is provoked by a desire to uphold God's truth.

Biblical Example: Paul was initially zealous but wrong (persecuting the Church), but once enlightened, his zeal built the Kingdom (Philippians 3:6–8, Acts 9:20–22).

3. ZEAL EMPOWERS ENDURANCE AND CONSISTENCY
Zeal is the inner fire that keeps us going, even when the work is hard or unappreciated.

a) 2 Corinthians 9:2 – Your Zeal Has Stirred Many
A zealous life inspires and encourages others in the faith.

b) Isaiah 59:17 – He Put On the Garments of Vengeance and Was Clad with Zeal
Zeal strengthens us for spiritual warfare and righteous action.

c) Colossians 3:23 – Do It Heartily as Unto the Lord
God honours wholehearted service.

d) Hebrews 6:11 – Show the Same Diligence to the Full Assurance of Hope
Zeal helps us remain steadfast in the long journey of faith.

Biblical Example: Elijah’s zeal for God made him confront idolatry in Israel (1 Kings 19:10).

4. ZEAL ATTRACTS GOD’S ATTENTION AND REWARD
God honours those who serve Him with passion, commitment, and reverence.

a) Hebrews 11:6 – God Rewards Those Who Diligently Seek Him
A zealous heart draws divine favour and open doors.

b) Malachi 3:17–18 – God Makes a Distinction Between the Zealous and the Lukewarm
Those who serve God faithfully will be honoured.

c) 2 Kings 10:16 – Jehu Said, "Come See My Zeal for the Lord"
Zeal can become your spiritual testimony.

d) 1 Corinthians 15:58 – Abound in the Work of the Lord
Zealous service is never wasted; God sees and rewards it.

Biblical Example: David's zeal led him to defeat Goliath when others were afraid (1 Samuel 17:26–50).

CONCLUSION:
Serving God with zeal means giving your best with consistency and joy. It’s not driven by emotions but by love and revelation. Zeal does not allow room for apathy, compromise, or laziness. It moves us to evangelise, pray fervently, give sacrificially, and stand boldly for God’s truth.

In a time where many have become cold or indifferent, let your life burn brightly for the Lord. Stir up the fire within you, fan it with prayer, fuel it with the Word, and let your zeal glorify God in all things.

PRAYER POINTS:
1. Lord, ignite fresh zeal for You in my heart.
2. Father, deliver me from spiritual coldness and apathy.
3. Let my service to You be marked with joy, passion, and excellence.
4. Holy Spirit, teach me to channel my zeal with wisdom and knowledge.
5. Empower me to be consistent in my walk and service to God.

PROPHETIC DECLARATIONS:
1. Your fire will not go out; you shall serve the Lord with passion!
2. God will reward your zeal with open doors and divine favour!
3. You will not be lukewarm; you will be a burning and shining light!
4. Every spirit of weariness and coldness is broken in your life!
5. You will be known as one who is zealous for the glory of God!