How can we restore spiritual value when our faith feels "changed" or diminished? The Verse in Focus “Therefore remember from where you have fallen; repent, and perform the deeds you did at first.” (Revelation 2:5) What Diminished Faith Looks Like • Loss of passion for prayer and Scripture • Neglect of fellowship and service (Hebrews 10:24–25) • Increased tolerance of sin or spiritual apathy (James 4:17) • A sense that God feels distant, though He has not moved (Psalm 73:28) God’s Prescription for Restoration 1. Remember • Recall past seasons when Christ felt near. • Trace the specific practices and priorities you once held. 2. Repent • Confess where you drifted (1 John 1:9). • Turn decisively from competing loves (Matthew 6:24). 3. Repeat • “Perform the deeds you did at first.” Return to the basics: – Daily, expectant Bible intake (Psalm 119:25, 105) – Honest, relational prayer (Philippians 4:6–7) – Joyful obedience in the small things (John 14:15) Practical Steps to Live It Out • Schedule an undistracted hour this week to “remember” and journal how God rescued and guided you in earlier days. • Pray Psalm 51:12 aloud, asking God to “restore to me the joy of Your salvation.” • Choose one concrete act of first-love obedience—perhaps sharing the gospel with a friend (Romans 1:16) or serving in your church (1 Peter 4:10). • Re-establish fellowship: invite a mature believer to meet regularly for accountability (Proverbs 27:17). • Eliminate known spiritual hindrances—media, habits, or relationships that dull your hunger for God (Hebrews 12:1). Encouraging Promises • “Those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength; they will soar on wings like eagles.” (Isaiah 40:31) • “He restores my soul; He guides me in the paths of righteousness for His name’s sake.” (Psalm 23:3) • “He who began a good work in you will perfect it until the day of Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 1:6) Closing Encouragement Spiritual value is not lost; it lies ready to be rekindled. By remembering where you once stood, repenting of the drift, and repeating the works of first love, you invite the Lord to fan dying embers into a vibrant flame once more. |
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