I have been blessed to pastor Bethlehem Baptist Church for nearly 40 years. Over these decades, I have watched many people join the church with fire and enthusiasm. They are present every Sunday, eagerly join ministries, and serve the Lord with zeal. However, I find it remarkable—and heartbreaking—how quickly that initial fire can go out.
In recent years, especially post-pandemic, many have lost their passion and fire to attend worship. There are various reasons why the fire dims: troubles and burdens, a broken marriage, sudden unemployment, and countless other challenges that life throws our way. The reality is that in this life, we will all face trials and difficulties.
We must persevere and remain consistent because, as the Scripture reminds us, “the race is not given to the swift, but to those who endure to the end.” It is essential to honor God in our daily lives, nurturing a fire within that never goes out.
If we are not careful, we risk losing our sense of purpose to worship God in spirit and truth. Now, more than ever—with all the turmoil in our world and nation—we need to be on fire for the Lord. We must let that flame burn bright. We can depend on the Lord and not allow anything to take away the blessings that come from worshiping Him.
Our flames must be lit daily so that people can see Jesus shining brightly in our lives. We cannot simply go through the motions; our faith must be real, deep, and abiding. This faith allows us to honor God each and every day.
We should look forward to every opportunity to attend the house of God, praising, worshiping, and serving Him with all our heart, soul, and mind.
Whatever you do, do not let the fire go out. Take time to remember the blessings God has so richly and freely given you. Look back on your life and recall:
– The times you were sick and He healed you.
– Moments when He comforted you after the loss of a loved one.
– Instances He opened doors and provided blessings.
– And His forgiveness—again and again.
When much is given, much is required. We owe God so much because He has been good to us.
It is my fervent prayer that you remain grateful not only for what God has done but for what He is doing and will continue to do. May you eagerly anticipate going to the house of God so you can joyfully say, “I was glad when they said unto me, let us go into the house of the Lord.”
Enter with fire, leave with fire, and give God praise, glory, and honor every day because all we have comes from Him. He deserves our highest praise.
A question I want to leave with you today is this: Has your fire gone out?
If so, reignite that fire today. And if your fire is still burning, let it burn even brighter because you have experienced the awesome blessings of God.
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**Spotlight:** Misty Copeland broke barriers as the first Black female principal dancer with American Ballet Theatre. Now, through her nonprofit, she’s making dance more accessible for children of color.
https://www.phillytrib.com/religion/keep-the-fire-in-your-worship/article_313cd036-2edf-4dfc-bdf0-3e31ff387c5f.html
