What’s Your Passion? (Part 1: Definition)

What comes to mind when you hear the word PASSION?  Webster’s dictionary defines passion as “an intense emotion compelling action.”  It lists four synonyms:  fervor, ardor, enthusiasm, and zeal.

God gave passions to all people – Christians and non-Christians alike.  These intense emotions compel you to take action.  Sometimes your passions lead you to positive, constructive results.  Other times your passions result in negative, destructive consequences.  If the word passion bothers you, then use one of these words instead:  desire, interest, concern or burden.

The difference between positive and negative passion is based on the motivation behind its’ use. Is the motivation to gratify your selfish desires? Or is it based on unconditional love for others?  God intends your passions to bring about good in the world as you serve others on His behalf.

Do you remember the intense emotions you felt when you first met that special person in your life?  You wanted to spend every moment together talking, laughing, sharing, and dreaming. There was an enthusiasm and ardor, a fervor, and zeal within you that captures the essence of the word PASSION.

Passions are intense desires that God embedded within every believer to make a difference. God embedded those desires within you when He created you. They are part of His plan for your life. Your passions are how this world will be better because you walked upon the earth.

In Psalm 37:4 passion is described this way: “Delight yourself in the Lord, and He will give you the desires of your heart.”  The phrase “desires of your heart” is another way saying the word passion.

Christians sometimes apply Psalm 37:4 in reverse order. They think the verse says, “Give me my heart’s desire, and then I will be delighted!” But the verse is the other way around. God comes first; passion comes second. God is more concerned about your relationship with Him than about fulfilling your heart’s desire. Passion flows out of a close, moment-by-moment relationship with Him.

Let me paint PASSION more vividly in dazzling Technicolor so it’s etched in your mind.

• Passion is the spiritual DNA embedded in the core of your being.
• Passion is the fading ember that bursts into flames with a sudden gust of wind.
• Passion is your heart beating faster as blood flows swiftly through the arteries.
• Passion is the hidden melody in your heart suddenly bursting forth in song.
• Passion is a daring journey along a path of discovery into the great unknown.
• Passion is the energy that thrusts you forward toward God’s purpose.
• Passion is simply where you yearn to make a difference for Christ on earth.

This series of posts will focus on your passion: what passion is; why it’s important; two types of passions; and how to identify yours. Your passion is critical to your calling. It is the fuel needed to make a difference in this world.

© 2011 Designed to Serve®