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Here is —

1. The diligent hand.

2. The fervent heart.

3. The single eye.

(J. Lyth, D.D.)

Fervent in spirit. —

I. WHAT IS IT TO BE FERVENT IN SPIRIT? To be serious and earnest in —

1. The exercise of graces; in our —

(1)  Love to God (Deuteronomy 6:5; Matthew 22:37).

(2)  Desires of Him (Psalm 42:1, 2).

(3)  Trust in Him (Job 13:25).

(4)  Rejoicing in Him (1 Peter 1:8).

(5)  Zeal for His glory (1 Corinthians 10:31), which yet must be —

(a)  Tempered with knowledge (Romans 10:2).

(b)  Regulated by His Word.

(6) Repentance (Job 42:5, 6).

(7)  Faith in Christ (James 2:26).

2. The performance of duties in —

(1)  Prayer (1 Corinthians 14:15).

(2)  Hearing (Ezekiel 33:31).

(3)  Meditation (Psalm 22.).

II. WHY THUS FERVENT IN SPIRIT?

1. The end of God's giving us such active spirits is that we might employ them for Him (Proverbs 16:4).

2. These are businesses of the greatest concern (Deuteronomy 30:15).

3. Whatsoever is not done fervently is no good work (Ecclesiastes 9:10).Conclusion:

1. Bewail your former indifference.

2. Be more serious for the future. Consider

(1)  They are great works you perform (2 Corinthians 2:16).

(2)  You cannot be too serious in them (Luke 17:10).

(3)  Heaven will recompense all your labours (1 Corinthians 15:58)

(Bp. Beveridge.)

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KJV: Not slothful in business; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord;

WEB: not lagging in diligence; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord;