Unless we really make an effort to maintain our enthusiasm, we can feel like life is wearing us down. A task or a job that used to feel challenging can become monotonous; a hobby that used to be exciting and energising can grow stale; a daily walk with God that used to be inspiring can begin to feel boring. The word enthusiasm comes from a Greek word which means ‘possessed by, or inspired by God’. But how do we stay inspired? Just as the Israelites gathered fresh manna every morning, we need a daily infusion of God’s Word and God’s Spirit. Paul challenged the Christians in Rome: ‘Serve the Lord enthusiastically’ (Romans 12:11 NLT). And the believers in Galatia: ‘If someone is eager to do good things…that’s all right’ (Galatians 4:18 NLT). Instead of complaining about all the things we don’t like, we need to realise that the presence and power of God actually lives within us! We need to refocus on the joyful fact that we’re children of God who loves us unconditionally. Author Sheldon Vanauken says: ‘The best argument for Christianity is Christians: their joy, their certainty, their completeness. But the strongest argument against Christianity is also Christians – when they are sombre…joyless…self-righteous…smug… narrow and repressive.’ Life with God isn’t meant to be a monotonous journey, but an energetic and exhilarating race to the finish line, which makes us exclaim, ‘Wow! What a ride!’ David tells us God lifted him out of a pit of despair, put his feet on solid ground, and gave him a new song (see Psalm 40:1-3). When we feel we need fresh enthusiasm, let’s ask God to do the same for us!

What Now?

Are you feeling enthusiastic for God today? If you need it, ask Him for an infusion of enthusiasm, then go and do something that you know helps you feel inspired again, such as reading your favourite Bible verse, or taking a walk and enjoying His creation.