Galatians 4:8-18 Zeal, Truth, and Love: These are the signs of a relationship

Formerly, when you did not know God, you were slaves to those who by nature are not gods. But now that you know God—or rather are known by God—how is it that you are turning back to those weak and miserable forces? Do you wish to be enslaved by them all over again? You are observing special days and months and seasons and years! I fear for you, that somehow I have wasted my efforts on you. I plead with you, brothers and sisters, become like me, for I became like you. You did me no wrong. As you know, it was because of an illness that I first preached the gospel to you, and even though my illness was a trial to you, you did not treat me with contempt or scorn. Instead, you welcomed me as if I were an angel of God, as if I were Christ Jesus himself. Where, then, is your blessing of me now? I can testify that, if you could have done so, you would have torn out your eyes and given them to me. Have I now become your enemy by telling you the truth? Those people are zealous to win you over, but for no good. What they want is to alienate you from us, so that you may have zeal for them. It is fine to be zealous, provided the purpose is good, and to be so always, not just when I am with you. In more than one place, Paul expresses his concern that his labor not be in vein. The main purpose of Paul's life was to share the good news of the gospel to those who were separated from God. As a farmer plants seeds, so planted the seeds of the gospel. At first they were received and prospered. But then the plants began to show rebellion against the farmer who is Paul. So he reasons, "Who changed your mind? Was it the Jews?" He reminds them that zeal is a virtue as long as the object of their zeal is Christ Jesus. Daily Prayer: Lord, if we have received the good seed of the gospel, keep us from backsliding. The enemy, Satan, is like a roaring lion seeking someone to devour. You have proven you are stronger than he, so be my champion and rescue me from the lies of the evil one. In Jesus name I pray Amen.