Solar Panels and Rechargeable Batteries

I know that after my departure fierce wolves will come in among you, not sparing the flock; and from among your own selves will arise men speaking twisted things, to draw away the disciples after them. Therefore be alert, remembering that for three years I did not cease night or day to admonish every one with tears. And now I commend you to God and to the word of his grace, which is able to build you up and to give you the inheritance among all those who are sanctified. (Acts 20:29-32 ESV). Years ago, when I hunted in Texas, I installed a solar panel and a rechargeable battery on my deer feeder. I don’t pretend to know how it works, though I know the results. When installed properly, the solar panel converts sunlight to electricity, which is passed to the battery to recharge it and keep it at an optimum level for operation. It is a marvel of convenience and consistency. Gone are the days when I need worry about the battery being charged enough to do its work. As I began to think about this I thought we could learn something about the Christian life. When we become Christians we are like a brand new battery. We’re usually fully charged and ready to launch into our new life as a child of God. We are excited about the Lord. Seldom does our joy and enthusiasm for the cause ebb. In fact, it usually overflows. Yet in time and due to extensive use we sometimes begin to "run low." We seem to lose some of our initial "charge." We can fall into the same trap, as did those who were a part of the church in Ephesus. Jesus addresses their problem in Revelation chapter 2. Notice verse four, "Nevertheless I have somewhat against thee, because thou hast left thy first love." In other words their battery had lost its charge. He then challenges them to do the “first works.” Jesus was not satisfied with their growing cold. The church was still teaching the truth and "going through the motions" of faithfulness, yet they had lost their initial love for the Christ. Jesus expected them to rekindle the flame within their hearts, and regain the love they had once had. They needed to recharge their batteries! From time to time perhaps, we ourselves grow somewhat cold and stagnant. When we do we should remind ourselves, all is not lost. We like the rechargeable battery can regain our "charge." There is a "solution" that the Lord has prepared that will re-ignite the flame and resurrect the zeal we once had for the Lord. The "solution" which the Lord has provided to recharge us is the Scripture. The gospel will convert us, and keep us justified. This is the impact of our reading this morning. When you feel your battery growing weak turn back to the source of life, Jesus Christ. Let Him recharge your life and lead you to joy and peace.