Back in August 2015 (yep, two years ago) I started my Bible alphabet blog series, no need to say I took some detours along the way :) but here we are... Z stands for Zeal.
According to Merriam-Webster dictionary zeal, or fervor, is an eagerness and ardent interest in pursuit of something.
In the Old Testament zeal is often attributed to God, as in Isaiah 37:32 For out of Jerusalem will come a remnant, and out of Mount Zion a band of survivors. The zeal of the Lord Almighty will accomplish this. In this context the Hebrew word קִנְאָה is being used, which is pronounced 'qinah' (ardor, zeal, jealousy). God's love for Israel comes with a healthy jealousy to keep her as His own.
In the New Testament zeal is more a form of enthusiasm as mentioned in Romans 12:11, Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. The Greek word is σπουδή, which is pronounced 'spoudé' (haste, diligence, earnestness, enthusiasm). It is a call for the modern day believer to stay excited and diligent; refusing to fall asleep on the couch of dead religion.
I had a brain blip and, disillusioned, thought that said Zeus for a second. Just when I was wondering what I'd clicked on...zeal, OH! :)
ReplyDeleteYes, zeal. It is new every morning. Zeus, not so much.
Haha, Zues... no way :) Glad you got it after all. Zeal, new every morning, I like that!
DeleteI love the word "zeal" it speaks of the greatness of God's love for us.
ReplyDeleteYes, it does. I think His zeal should be contagious.
DeleteZ? Wow, next is another A? Lol.
ReplyDeleteMarja, just letting you know that I have nominated you for the 2017 Blogger Recognition Award. You will find it here at http://www.mydailywalkinhisgrace.com/2017/08/a-blogger-recognition-award.html . Hope it blesses you as it has blessed me.
God bless,
Tracy
Yeah Z.... it took me two years, talking about irregular blogging :)
DeleteI have checked your blog, thanks for the nomination, I appreciate it.