Special Tests for Special Purposes – Part 13

A runner in a race strips down to the bare minimum. He does not carry one ounce of unnecessary weight. We must do the same and eliminate some of the things. Social obligations that have no spiritual significance, sentimental attachments to people, places or pets – excessive concerns with the stock market, sports or women’s fashions window shopping – worries about money, health and family or politics.

Concerning each thing to which we devote time and attention, we need to ask ourselves these questions. Does it glorify Jesus? And does it build me up spiritually?

One essential character requirement throughout Scripture is endurance. With many Christians, however, this is not a popular subject. If in my preaching I announce that my theme is to be endurance, I get very few “Hallelujahs” in response. Sometimes I go on to say, “Let me tell you how to cultivate endurance. People listen eagerly, anxious to learn the secret. There is only one way to cultivate endurance, it is by enduring. This is greeted by an almost audible collective sigh and expressed in words, that sigh says, “You mean there isn’t any other easier way?” No there is no easier way.