The sacred privilege of service for the Lord demands a daily life of unreserved surrender, faithful Bible reading, study, prayer and practical conduct, which bears consistent witnesses to the indwelling Christ.  The result of our unreserved surrender to the Lord is personal growth, which is vital to any Christian ministry (II Peter 3:18).  Therefore, our minds and hearts should be permeated with a sincere desire not to grieve the Holy Spirit in any way, but on the other hand, to please Him by our obedience and to glorify God in all our service. (I Cor. 6:19,20)

To maintain our spiritual walk, it is essential that we recognize the reality of our three-fold enemy -- Satan, the world and the flesh.

A.          As to Satan, we must develop keen spiritual discernment so we will be able to stand courageously against his attacks and not be ignorant of his devices.  (Ephesians 6:10-13; II Cor. 2:11).

B.           As to the world, it is imperative that we guard against its influence, and be separated from questionable practices which discredit our Christian testimony such as the use of tobacco, drugs, alcoholic beverages, gambling, dancing, carnal and pornographic literature, etc.  (I Cor. 6:12; I Cor. 10:23; 12:19; 14:26; I Jn. 2:6)

We also must avoid entangling alliances with unbelievers, such as, by marriage to an unsaved person or through membership in oath-bound fraternal organizations, etc.  (II Cor. 6:14-7:1; II Tim. 2:4).

Along with this it is imperative that we practice a high degree of spiritual discernment so we will not find our flesh being deceived by the many items that daily access our lives.  We may find many things to be good in themselves; yet if misused, they can paralyze our personal growth and discredit our testimony for Christ.  Discernment, therefore, should be used with television, videos, radio, card games, theater attendance, music and a whole assortment of other items.

C.          As to the flesh, an attitude of crucifixion and death is the only safe and spiritual answer to this ever-present peril.  (Romans 6; Galatians 5: 15,24,25).  We must especially refrain from the sins specified in Scripture, such as, bitterness, wrath, malice, envy, murmurings, whisperings (gossip), backbiting, misuse of the tongue, etc.  (Rom. 1; Gal. 5; Eph. 4; Phil. 2; Col. 3; James 3).

D.          As to our commitment, emphasis must also be given to the spiritual significance of the entire Lord's Day as a memorial and celebration of the resurrection of Christ and a witness to the newness of resurrection life the believer is privileged to experience in Him. (Acts 20:7; Col. 3:1-3).

The importance of the mid-week prayer meetings is urged upon all of our fellowship and those who serve in any phase of the ministry are expected to set the example of regular attendance and participation.  (Eph. 6:18; Heb. 10:25).

Finally, we urge upon all the importance of taking advantage of opportunities for additional help or training, which will increase the effectiveness of our ministry for the Lord Jesus Christ.  (II Timothy 2:15).

"Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye steadfast, unmovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labor is not in vain in the Lord...And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men." (I Cor. 15:58; Col. 3:23).

All members of CALVARY BAPTIST CHURCH, especially the officers, teachers in the Sunday School, leaders of youth groups, ministers of music, members of the choir and leaders of other church organizations are to be wholly in agreement with these spiritual standards.  Along with this, a visible practice of godly living should be evident in their lives.