THE PASSION OF CHRIST

The Transformative Power of Passion in the Kingdom of God

MY DAILY BREAD

Introduction

In the book of Nehemiah, we find a powerful testament to the impact of passion in the life of a believer. Nehemiah 1:4 tells us, "When I heard these things, I sat down and wept. For several days, I mourned, fasted, and prayed before the God of heaven." This verse sets the stage for a deeper exploration of the role of passion in our faith journey.

The Nature of Passion

Passion, is a formidable force, an intense enthusiasm that compels us to action. It can be either positive or negative, but as believers, we are called to channel our passion toward positivity with results that benefit the kingdom of God. Our passion should be a force for good, reflecting the love and grace of our Heavenly Father.

Nehemiah's Passion for God

Nehemiah's story is a vivid illustration of passion for God. When he learned of the dire state of Jerusalem - its broken walls and burning gates - he was filled with a burning passion for God. His response was not one of indifference or despair but a resolute determination to seek God's mercy and grace. Through mourning, fasting, and fervent prayer, Nehemiah sought divine guidance and strength to rebuild the temple and restore Jerusalem (Nehemiah 1:1-11).

Passion in God's Kingdom

Our passion for God's kingdom should empower us to endure challenges for the sake of our fellow believers and the greater good. Just as Jesus exhibited incredible passion in Gethsemane, where He prayed and even sweated drops of blood while submitting to the Father's will, our passion should enable us to declare the finished work of salvation and continue to spread God's grace to others.

Walking in Purpose

Like Jesus, Nehemiah's passion was aligned with God's will. It enabled him to see a vision and walk purposefully towards its fulfillment. We must ask ourselves: Where is our passion leading us in God's kingdom? Are we driven by a zeal that consumes us for the cause of Christ?

David's Zeal and Jesus' Righteous Anger

Even in the face of mockery, insults, scorn, and disgrace, King David declared, "The zeal of the Lord has consumed me" (Psalm 69). Similarly, Jesus displayed righteous anger when He drove the traders out of the temple, fulfilling the prophecy, "Zeal for your house will consume me" (John 2:16-17).

John 2:16-17 (NIV): To those who sold doves he said, “Get these out of here! Stop

turning my Father’s house into a market!” His disciples remembered that it is

written: “Zeal for your house will consume me.”

Conclusion

Passion is a powerful force in the life of a believer. It can lead us to seek God's guidance and strength in times of adversity, empower us to endure hardships and drive us to fulfill our God-given purpose. As we reflect on the examples of Nehemiah, David, and Jesus, let us be inspired to cultivate a passion that aligns with God's will, benefits His kingdom, and transforms our lives and the lives of those around us.

Meditation

Nehemiah 1:1-11

Declaration

I declare my life is ordered, constructed, and interlinked by the Word of God, and all things are working according to God's purpose, plans, and will in my life. I affirm I am walking in the path of my destiny, and His grace has enabled me to seek Him with the highest passion of my decisions, and priorities, and life has changed for the best in Jesus' Mighty name, Amen.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, we thank you for the passion and zeal that have consumed us for your kingdom's business. May our passion be a force for good, and may it always align with your divine will. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

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