" Learning from Fanatics ! "

Hebrews 10:19-25  "Having therefore, brethren, boldness to enter into the holiest by the blood of JESUS, by a new and living way, which HE hath consecrated for us, through the veil, that is to say, HIS flesh; and having an HIGH PRIEST over the house of GOD; let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; (for HE is faithful that promised:) and let us consider one another to provoke unto love and to good works: not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the Day approaching."

     What a privilege it is to assemble together with GOD's people and to continue steadfastly in the doctrine of the Apostles, in fellowship, in breaking of bread, and in prayer (Acts 2:42)! Yet, sometimes our faithfulness to the local assembly of believers can be lukewarm and sporadic. We need to learn some lessons from fanatical sports fans:

1. Fans arrive early. They hate to be late to a game. They do not want to miss anything.

2. Fans want the best seats, usually the seats closest to the action. Who ever heard of a fan wanting to sit way toward the back ? The best seats are those near the front.

3. Fans actively participate with gusto. They are vocal; they cheer; they stand; they clap. Yet some worshipers barely even open their mouth when they sing.

4. Fans never miss a game. Distance is not an issue. they will drive many miles to a game. Money is not a problem. They are willing to pay for very expensive tickets. The weather is not a deterrent. They will drive through rain, wind, and snow rather than miss a game.

5. Fans are knowledgeable. They know every fact about their team and every statistic about their players. They can tell a friend details from a game that they saw days earlier. But, how many Christians have a working knowledge of the Scriptures and can give a detailed recounting of the Bible message they just heard ?

6. Fans have no problem if the game goes longer than normal. They love overtime and extra-inning games and do not care when they get home or if their meal is delayed. How do Christians respond when a Pastor goes ten minutes longer than usual ?

May GOD help us to be fully devoted to that which is far more important than sports !

Your servant in CHRIST, 
Julie

Copyright, FEATURE: A Daily Bible Study Guide.

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