Have You Forsaken Your First Love?

“[2] I know your works, your labor, your patience, and that you cannot bear those who are evil. And you have tested those who say they are apostles and are not, and have found them liars; [3] and you have persevered and have patience, and have labored for My name’s sake and have not become weary. [4] Nevertheless I have this against you, that you have left your first love.” — Revelation 2:2 - 4 NKJV

When I gained admission to the university, I became so focused on establishing myself in the school and studying so much. Unbeknownst to me, there came a time I wasn’t calling my mother for weeks. Then one day, she called me and gave me a strong correction about my actions. And since that day, a week has never gone by without me speaking to her at least four times. Why would I say this?

My mother is the one who loved me first, even before coming to know Jesus. While I was too focused on my education to please her with my results, I was indirectly neglecting her.

Sadly, that’s how some of us Christians treat God. We work for him in the ministry so much that we don’t have quality time to fellowship with him. That’s an error we must be intentional about not repeating. However, it didn’t start today. It came as a revelatory word to John on the isle of Patmos.

In one of the warnings of Jesus through the angel of the church in Ephesus, He said they had forsaken their first love. Though they worked, kept the faith and endured hardships for God’s sake, they abandoned their fellowship with their Maker.

Dear Christian, ask yourself whether you’re in this category of people. Yes, you may be well trained in church to live a godly life. But what about your personal fellowship with Jesus? How is your love for Him like today? Have you forsaken your first love — the Lord Jesus, who saved you and gave you eternal life? Think about this.

Yes, work is good. Family is important. Life goes on. But God didn’t create anything we see, have or use to replace Him in our lives. As you grow, you’ll never get any less busy. So if you’ll be intentional about being strict on your time with God, better do it today before too many things start to take your time.

You’re a blessing.

Prayer

Father, examine my life. If, in any way, I’ve forsaken my first love by neglecting my personal fellowship with you, strengthen me to rebuild that spiritual culture in my life. Cause an awakening in me so that I’ll not indirectly subject my life to the systems of this evil world. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Devotional Code: KGD // 2022 – 325