Be Constant and Consistent
Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your toil is not in vain in the Lord. 1 Corinthians 15:58
We have learned a lot from Hannah during this fast. Today I want us to look at Samuel’s life as an example for constant and consistent service. Hannah took Samuel to the temple at a young age. Possibly around age 6. Even at a young age, Samuel understood the importance of his service in the temple. Samuel’s job was to keep the lamp of God from going out. Day after day, year after year, working days, weekends and holidays, Samuel tended to the lamp. I would venture to say it would be easy for us to become bored and complacent in our assigned duty. But Samuel was constant, he daily went about his duties with consistency and perseverance. What made Samuel get up and do the same thing day after day no matter how he felt? Faith. Samuel genuinely believed his service meant something in the Kingdom of God. Because he was consistent and steadfast in his assignment, he developed deep roots that would hold him when times were bleak. Samuel relied on what he believed and not the excitement of the “job”.
A marathon runner can’t build endurance for the race without a consistent, daily workout routine that involves running. For that runner, it may mean running the same course day after day but without the constant training, they will never finish the race. As Christians, we face the same stress, bad attitudes, fears, and worry as nonbelievers. But Jesus did not die only for salvation but that we could be overcomers. But in all these things we overwhelmingly conquer through Him who loved us. Romans 8:37 (NASB)
We are to consecrate our bodies to God’s service. This basically means we dedicate ourselves to His purpose. It is an act of dedication. Making a conscious decision to reject the devil and cling to the things of God. It is not a single one-time decision. It is a way of life. It is a decision to light the lamp daily regardless if others see it as a mundane act. It is after all, the light of God. It is His hands extended no matter how trivial the task.
Make a commitment today, actively pursue what your assignment is and when you stumble get up and keep walking. Be constant. Be consistent. Be God’s workman.
Be diligent to present yourself approved to God as a workman who does not need to be ashamed, accurately handling the word of truth. 2 Timothy 2:15
Bible Reading: 2 Timothy 2:14-26