By Andrew Williams
Opening Prayer
Father, please give us the honesty to look at our own hearts and the grace to hear your truth without condemnation.
Today’s Scripture (NLT)
Revelation 2:4-5a
“But I have this complaint against you. You don’t love me or each other as you did at first! Look how far you have fallen! Turn back to me and do the works you did at first.”
The Christian journey is not always a straight line of upward progress. There are seasons when the passion we once had for God can begin to fade. This is often called “backsliding” or spiritual drift. It’s not about losing your salvation, but about losing your intimacy with God.
In this message to the church in Ephesus, Jesus puts His finger on the core issue: “You don’t love me… as you did at first.” They were still doing religious things, still showing up, but the fire, the passion, the “first love” was gone. Backsliding isn’t a dramatic, overnight rebellion. It’s a slow, subtle cooling of the heart. It’s when duty replaces delight, and routine replaces relationship.
Jesus’ words here are not a harsh condemnation, but a loving diagnosis. He sees the drift and calls them back. Acknowledging that the fire has faded is the first, brave step toward returning. It’s admitting that something is missing and that you’ve begun to drift from the One who is your true home.
Disciples’ Life Tip: Honestly assess your own heart. On a scale of 1-10, how would you rate the passion of your “first love” for Jesus right now? You don’t have to show anyone the number. Just be honest with yourself and with God.
Closing Prayer: Lord, search our hearts. If we have left our first love, gently reveal it to us. Rekindle in us a passionate and sincere love for You. Amen.
