EAGERLY DECLARE THE GOOD NEWS

               "Be aglow with the spirit. Slave for Jehovah." -ROMANS 12:11.

A YOUNG man is excited about a new job. On his first day at work,  he anxiously awaits his employer's instructions. He looks forward to his first task and takes it very seriously. He is eager to do his best.

In a similar way, we as Christians could view ourselves as new workers. Since our hope is to live forever, it could be said that we have just started working for Jehovah. Surely our Creator has numerous tasks in mind for us that will keep us busy  into eternity. But the very first commission we received was that of declaring the good news of his Kingdom.  (1 Thessalonians 2:4) How do we feel about this assignment from God?  Like the young man, we want to carry it out to the best  of our ability, with zeal, with joy-yes, with eagerness!

Granted, maintaining such a positive attitude can be a challenge. In addition to our ministry, we have many other responsibilities, some of which may tax us physically and emotionally. For the most part, we manage to care for these things while giving adequate attention to the ministry. Still, it can be an ongoing struggle.  (Mark 8:34) Jesus emphasized that our success  as Christians would require vigorous effort. -Luke 13:24. 

With so many things to do, it is easy to feel overwhelmed or weighed down at times.  "Anxieties of life" could choke our zeal and appreciation for theocratic activities.  (Luke 21:34, 25; Mark 4:18, 19) Because of our imperfect human nature, we might leave 'the love we had at first.' (Revelation 2:1-4) Certain aspects of our service to Jehovah could become somewhat routine. How does the bible provide the needed encouragement for us to keep our zeal for the ministry alive? 

Next time: Like "a Burning Fire" in our Hearts

From the Watchtower magazine, 2000