In almost every congregation of God's people there are some who have the strangest attitude imaginable, for one who claims to be a child of God. He shows this attitude in his lack of diligence in attendance, as well as the fact that he never shares with another the story of salvation in Christ, or never encourages the physically or spiritually sick by showing his interest in them. It almost seems that to him Christianity is a drudgery, something to be endured, something which must be "put up with" for a hour or so on the Lord's day (morning, not evening). He seems to be saying by his actions, "What is the minimum required of me in order to get to heaven?"

When we consider the great love of God for us; we should indeed by happy to serve Him. "Behold what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called children of God; and such we are "(I John 3:1). In fact, those who show no interest in more than just minimal effort usually have failed to grow and develop as they should and are aptly described by Peter, `For he that lacketh these things is blind, seeing only what is near, having forgotten the cleansing from his old sins "(2 Peter 1:9).

Consider this thought. Who in this world has more reason to be joyful? Who has more reason for hope and more reason to praise God? Only the obedient child of God truly appreciates and shows that appreciation for the love of God.

Dear brother and sister in Christ. If you have this long faced attitude about service to God, you need to change your mind. You need desperately to repent of your stubbornness, your stiff necked attitude, and humble yourself before God. Please think seriously on these words from the inspired apostle Paul to the Philippians. "Rejoice in the Lord always: again I will say, Rejoice. Let your forbearance be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand. In nothing be anxious; but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding shall guard your hearts and your thoughts in Christ Jesus" (Phil. 4:4-7). Brethren, rejoice in the Lord.

Truth Magazine, XVIII:44, p. 13
September 12, 1974