It's one of the most important words in our dictionary: enthusiasm! It can change the way we live and accomplish our daily activities. It's a simple word, yet can make all the difference in the world as to how we approach life.

I recently read an article by Jack Exam, who, to me is "Mr. Enthusiasm" himself. In it he included a quote taken from a church sign in Kansas City that read, "Wake up, preach up, pray up, stay up, pay up, but never give up, or let up, back up or shut up, till the cause of Christ in His church and in all the world be built up." That sounds like a good description of enthusiasm doesn't it!

Though we might have to look hard to find the word "enthusiasm" in our Bibles, the principle is certainly there. The word literally means, "God in us!" Now the apostle Paul was fond of using this expression to reference the power of God available to Christians. Here are just a few:

"For it is God who works in you to will and to act according to his good purpose"-Phil. 2:13
"I can do everything through him who gives me strength"-Phil. 4:13
"Now unto him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us…"- Eph. 3:20

Enthusiasm brings hope to the discouraged, joy to the work and motivation to continue. Enthusiasm will always keep trying when others are ready to give up. Why? Because the child of God realizes that his or her strength lies not in their own abilities; their own power, but in the power of God.

Indeed, "I can do all things through him who gives me strength!" This is real "enthusiasm!" It is God in us that makes the difference! Therefore, we will not give over, give in, give up or back up until Jesus comes! Amen?