In discussions with those outside of the church about why they won't become Christians, one answer I've receive is, "I'm not willing to give up some things I want to keep." One can certainly find many things in God's word one must "give-up" in order to serve Him. On the other hand the Bible is full of things one "must keep" in our service to Him.
Keep the Word of the Lord. "Most assuredly, I say to you, if anyone keeps My word he shall never see death."{John 8:51} If one desires to show love for God, they must keep His word. See Luke 8:15; 1 Corinthians 15:1-4.
Keep my Body Under Subjection. "But I discipline my body and bring it into subjection, lest, when I have preached to others, I myself should become disqualified."{1 Corinthians 9:27} Every day we must discipline our body to keep it under subjection to God's will. A person must not place their bodies in a position to commit sin, Romans 6:12,13.
Keep Ourselves Unspotted From the World. "Do not lay hands on anyone hastily, nor share in other people's sins; keep yourself pure." {1Timothy 5:22} We live in the world but we do not march to the beat of the same drum. God's ways and the ways of the world are opposite. See Romans 12:1,2; James 4:4; 1 John 2:15-17.
Keep the Faith. "But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him."{Hebrews 11:6} Our faith will be the only thing at times we can hold on to. Faith is following God without any reservation or doubt as to the outcome. Do you have that type of faith in God?
Keep Ourselves in the Love of God. "Keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life."{Jude 21} Love is a pivotal part of a Christian's life. Love for God and others, Matthew 22:37-40; love for brethren, 1 John 4;19-21; love for His word, Psalm 119:104.
Keep Myself Ready and Prepared. "Watch therefore, for you do not know when the master of the house is coming--in the evening, at midnight, at the crowing of the rooster, or in the morning."{Mark 13:35} God's children must always be ready for His return or our departure from this life. We must "keep" our guard up!
Dear reader, are you "keeping" these things?