Serve the L*rd with Gladness (And With Enthusiasm)

Week 2 - Day 10

"Make a joyful shout to the L*rd, all you lands! Serve the L*rd with gladness; come before His presences with singing" (Psalm 100:1-2). This is an amazing portion of Scripture that instructs us to live a life of celebration and joy in our serving Jesus. It is a powerful encouragement and command that neutralizes grumbling.

"Gladly serving" is a catalytic mindset that provides a secret door to our prophetic destiny. On the surface it might not seem that significant, but it is. Whenever we consistently relinquish joy in an assignment from G*d, we have most likely hit the ceiling of our ministry influence. Our gladness level is one indicator of whether we are ready for greater responsiblity and callings.

We are called to minister in faith and love. These qualities are positive forces that generate enthusiasm - which is foundational for gladness. Enthusiasm first appeared in English in 1603 with the meaning "possesseion by a god." The source of the word is Greek 'enthousiasmos,' which ultimately comes from the adjective 'entheos,' "having the god within."

Gladness and enthusiasm are spiritual "muscles" that can be developed to higher levels because they are already resident in us. (The G*d of the universe is both enthusiastic and glad - and He wants to be released through us in all we do.) If we have the habit of "serving the L*rd with grumbling" or without passion, then it may take a while to radically increase joy in ministry (but the effort and journey are worth it).

Here is a keey to help you: Act more glad and enthusiastic than you really feel. As you do so, you will find that your emotions will catch up to your actions. Then your "muscles" of gladness and enthusiasm will grow, and you will increase your influence for Christ (because you have overcome the lies that robbed you of serving our L*rd in faith with joy).

Declaration: I serve the L*rd with gladness. I am enthusiastic about the opportunites to minister in the name of Jesus. I am an increasing joy to those who are around me.