"Be not righteous over much; neither make thyself over wise: why shouldest thou destroy thyself?" Ecclesiastes 7:16

It is possible for some to become too zealous and religiously devout.

A minister of God should certainly be diligent in Scripture study and almost perpetual devotion, for thereby can he minister more effectively to the spiritual needs of the flock. And to a somewhat lesser extent, those who aspire to thus minister may be justified to diligently peruse His Word and meditate in spiritual matters. But aside from those two specific categories, we must never forget God's age old pronouncement unto man: "By the sweat of your face shall you eat your bread"! (See Gen. 3:19.)

...Elsewhere He again strengthened that perspective by saying that IF in the "mammon" of this world we were not faithful, WHO would deign to bestow the "true riches"?

"If therefore ye have not been faithful in the unrighteous mammon, who will commit to your trust the true riches?" Luke 16:11

God appointed one day for relaxation, rest, and meditation on spiritual matters. Elsewhere I have also shown that we should set aside one hour plus, every day, to draw nearer our Lord. If this is faithfully observed, then will that life become pleasing and acceptable to Christ our Lord. But to disregard Genesis 3:19 and the Lord's similar injunctions in order to solely pursue spiritual studies is grave error, UNLESS a person is active in or preparing for the Ministry.

...Was not the young Messiah "about His Father's business" at the age of twelve? And thereafter toiled faithfully at Joseph's side. And when the Spirit called Him, then was He equally as faithful and diligent to serve to the utmost of His physical energies. Thereby He manifested to us HOW we are to live....

"I AM THE WAY" (Jn. 14:6).

Chat 9/1976